reggae
music genre that originated in Jamaica in the late 1960s
Reggae is a vibrant tapestry of rhythm and melody, built on a foundation of laid-back grooves and infectious beats. The telltale offbeat guitar strumming dances effortlessly with deep basslines and skittering drums, creating an atmosphere that feels both relaxed and uplifting. It's music that’s not just heard; it's felt, inviting you to sway along and embrace its message of love, resilience, and social justice.
Originating in Jamaica in the late 1960s, reggae emerged as an evolution from ska and rocksteady, mirroring the socio-political climate of the time. It offered a voice for the marginalized, protesting inequality and celebrating cultural identity. Artists like Bob Marley brought reggae into the global spotlight with albums like "Exodus," which infused powerful lyrics with captivating rhythms. Meanwhile, Peter Tosh's "Legalize It" boldly tackled issues of cannabis reform and human rights, while Toots and the Maytals introduced infectious energy with their landmark work "Toots in the Morning."
For those new to reggae, start with Bob Marley's "Legend," a compilation that encapsulates his enduring influence and unforgettable melodies. Dive into "Catch a Fire" by The Wailers for an authentic glimpse into the genre's roots. Don’t overlook Burning Spear's "Marcus Garvey," a profound exploration of history and identity. Finally, check out Steel Pulse's "Your House," blending traditional reggae with funk influences for a modern twist. Once you've grasped these essentials, consider exploring dub or dancehall for a broader understanding of reggae's dynamic family.
1510 artists in the catalog.
Guides for reggae artists
Top reggae albums
See essentials
All reggae artists
Rihanna
adult contemporary music, contemporary R&B
Drake
contemporary R&B, dancehall
Akon
Europop, contemporary R&B
Mad Professor
dub music
Jimmy Cliff
ska
Bruno Mars
contemporary R&B, funk
Madness
2 tone, new wave
Thalía
Latin pop, Latin rock
Ricky Martin
Latin pop, contemporary R&B
Lenny Kravitz
folk music, funk rock
Boney M.
Eurodisco, Hi-NRG
Sting
blue-eyed soul, jazz
Shaggy
UB40
dub music, pop music
Twenty One Pilots
alternative hip-hop, alternative rock
Aquarium
art rock, bard rock
About reggae
What is reggae?
music genre that originated in Jamaica in the late 1960s
Where should I start with reggae?
Start with "Rated R" by Rihanna. It captures what makes reggae worth exploring.
What are the best reggae albums?
The reggae albums worth hearing first: "Rated R" by Rihanna, "Anti" by Rihanna, "Don't Stop the Music" by Rihanna, "Loud" by Rihanna and "Good Girl Gone Bad" by Rihanna.
How many reggae artists are there?
northsound.fm covers 1510 reggae artists, each with a recommended starting album and listening path.