Jamaica Music

Reggae is usually the first thing people think of when you mention Jamaica music. Though reggae is the dominant theme behind our music it is good for us to also appreciate its growth, development and evolution. Slavery has no doubt had an impact on our Jamaican culture and music to include reggae as it draws on our African roots. These roots are responsible for the rythmic beats and tunes now popular worldwide.

Most will agree that it all started with Jamaica Mento Music from as early as the 1920s then migrated to Jamaica Ska in the 50s then evolved to reggae. There is an incredibly rich history behind the music. These sounds represented various movements and cultures and morphed or eveolved with the times, moods and lives of real Jamaican people. In trying to explain the reggae movement it is probably best to compare it to rap, grunge or punk rock music. In essense when they were born they were the underdog reserved for the underground. Reggae was to Jamaica as hardcore rap is to the USA. It was the poor and underprevileged in Jamaica who encouraged the growth of reggae. Ironically after reggae hit the international scene it did not belong to the poor anymore. From the ghetto we needed a new underdog….a new rebellion and Dance Hall Reggae was born (more on that later).

Though we will be reporting our own views on the subject there are still a number of sites providing a plethory of information on reggae. These are our favourites so have a look and check back with us later. Irie. Reggae, Reggae Movement, Bob Marley, Dance Hall Reggae.

Tags: Reggae Music