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
Freddie McGregor
alternative rock
Danakil
Gentleman
Slightly Stoopid
Rebelution
Maxi Priest
dancehall, dub music
Men at Work
new wave, pop rock
Lyapis Trubetskoy
alternative rock, comedy rock
Donavon Frankenreiter
indie pop
Barrington Levy
rhythm and blues
O Rappa
Ziggy Marley
Michael Johnson
country music
The Gladiators
Collie Buddz
2Baba
African popular music, Afrobeats
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.