Reggae music has undergone an exciting revival over the past five years thanks to new artists like Byron Messia, Shenseea and others bringing its sound into fresh territory in 2023.
Rastafarianism is an age-old faith and often conveyed in reggae songs with deeply felt lyrics about its faith. These songs speak about it with such respect that any denial would only serve to undermine its message.
Talent came together on this project to honor Bob Andy’s legacy and pay our respects.
1. Blvk H3ro
Blvk H3ro is an emerging star of Jamaican reggae who has made a name for himself as a vocalist, songwriter and producer. With a signature sound that blends classic dancehall influences with reggae and pop music influences he has had songs used in advertisements by brands like Carhartt, Karl Kani and Levi’s as well as becoming part of Delicious Vinyl Island’s roster of artists.
Reggae music has its origins in traditional African and European forms of music, but began emerging as a distinct genre during the ’60s in Jamaican society by mixing elements from ska, jazz and Motown into its sound. Reggae was further popularized during its rapid development during the ’70s with bands like Tennors Toots & Maytals Bob Marley & the Wailers spreading it around North America; lyrics often addressed Rastafari spiritual themes as well as social justice messages which contributed to hip-hop’s influence across North American society influencing hip-hop’s rise as well.
Reggae music was named after an English phrase meaning “rags,” while its musical style developed predominantly from ska, with influences from rock and Motown music as well. Reggae represented the spirit and sounds of ghetto life; guitar playing technique called skengay invoked images of gunshots ringing out through Kingston streets – this imagery helped cement reggae’s reputation as the voice of oppressed communities.
In the ’70s, reggae gained widespread attention with the rise of artists like Marley and the Wailers and Jamaican-produced film The Harder They Come – which chronicled working class black people’s struggle.
Reggae remains an integral component of global popular culture today, and its roots continue to influence music styles such as dancehall and reggaeton. Politically charged lyrics combined with smooth vibes have inspired urban contemporary genres like rap. And beyond its mainstream success, reggae remains immensely popular within Jamaica’s diverse community.
3. Lee Scratch Perry
Perry made history when he became the first Jamaican superstar to break through globally in music, shaping its sound through his work with Peter Tosh, Bunny Wailer, and Bob Marley in the Wailers (late 60s / early 70s) buoyed by Upsetters tight rhythms made him a household name; dub compilations from bands like Clash cemented his status; by the 90s he was considered one of its defining figures.
Perry used his studio, known as Black Ark, to produce multitrack recordings with an emphasis on sound experimentation. He often utilized echo effects, reverberations and rhythmic delay as means of shaping each instrument’s sounds and creating space and depth perception.
Perry struggled with mental instability and unpredictable behavior despite his success; he would often indulge in violent temper tantrums, rail against the business aspect of music, and engage in violent temper tantrums himself. By the early ’80s he began working with dub acolytes such as Mad Professor and Adrian Sherwood to produce albums which sold well in Britain; by 1997 his albums had sold even better there! Additionally, compilation albums including Arkology and Black Album helped cement his legacy.
In 2015, Perry’s studio in Switzerland caught fire, destroying many unreleased tracks and stage costumes he hadn’t released publicly yet. Rumors swirled that Perry may have set the fire out of desperation or in a fit of anger after becoming convinced Satan had taken possession of Black Ark.
Though his public profile may have decreased over the years, Perry’s music remains vital and exciting. Collaborations with Brooklyn Subatomic Sound System in 2016 (remixing their classic Super Ape Returns to Conquer) as well as Sherwood for Rainford in 2017 remain key examples. He even collaborated with Swiss electronica artist Dieter Meier on recording their project Technomajikal!
4. Marcia Griffiths
Marcia Griffiths OJ OD is one of Jamaica’s most successful female singers and is best known as “Queen of Reggae.” Born November 23 1949 and beginning her singing career in 1964. Marcia has released several hits over time that have established her as an iconic musician in the music industry. She’s best-known for her emotive love songs and captivating live performances. Marcia has recorded several chart-topping singles that have garnered international acclaim, her most memorable hit coming in 1982 when she recorded Bunny Wailer’s classic dance tune “Electric Boogie.” This hit immediately became a top seller in Jamaica before rising up the American charts and inspiring world renowned dance craze the Electric Slide.
Marcia remains active today, performing with her band at major venues around the globe. She has shared the stage with some of the most celebrated musicians worldwide: in recent years alone she toured with Beres Hammond and Freddie Mcgregor in America; shared it with Boyz II Men at their massive Spring Break concert for MTV in Negril Jamaica; traveled to England where Beres Hammond performed alongside her; as well as being involved with Boyz II Men performances there as well.
She has recorded some songs with legendary Jamaican producer Sonia Pottinger. Sonia Pottinger is well-recognized producer who has collaborated with multiple artists in the industry; some of her most noteworthy singles are: “Truly”, “Melody Life”, and “Tell Me Now”.
Marcia has been part of Jamaica’s music scene for nearly half a century and remains at the forefront. A true legend, Marcia keeps Bob Marley and the Wailers’ legacy alive by performing their music with passion and class. For her efforts she was awarded with Jamaica’s Order of Distinction award; additionally she honored Studio One by creating a series of recordings featuring classic artists who recorded there.