The 1980s was a remarkable era for reggae music, featuring singers like Judy Mowatt and Debroahe Glasgow who could address serious topics while engaging and informing their listeners at once.
Desmond Dekker and the Aces’ “Israelites” was an early precursor of roots reggae’s depictions of social injustice during the 1970s.
1. “Sweet and Dandy” by Toots and the Maytals
Reggae music epitomized by this iconic track is defined by its fun, seductive vibe that anyone can sing along to easily – no wonder why this track became such a phenomenon! Even now, music icons such as Jay Z and Kanye West sample this tune into their own songs, further cementing its status as timeless classic.
“Sweet and Dandy,” released three years before Bob Marley’s death, is widely recognized as a landmark reggae track. While less political than Marley’s previous hits, its message of love and unity remains timeless and relevant today.
Jamaican producers played a vital part in shaping ska, rocksteady and reggae into popular genres; British producers played an equally crucial role in popularizing them worldwide. Reggae producer Chris Blackwell established Island Records in 1960 to showcase Jamaican talent; pairing artists with talented producers so their music was promoted professionally.
Throughout the 1980s, bands such as Britain’s Steel Pulse kept roots reggae alive while toasters like Yellowman and Eek-a-Mouse popularized dancehall, an innovative new genre inspired by reggae music that integrated hip hop dance elements. Through this process they could reach wider audiences.
Judy Mowatt was one of Bob Marley’s I-Threes band, and this moving song featured her soulful vocals to celebrate female empowerment and fight back against an oppressive world. Additionally, its lyrics serve as an important reminder to never lose faith in yourself and keep fighting hard for your dreams.
2. “Blackheart Man” by Bunny Wailer
While many reggae songs focus on political or religious matters, this song by Bunny Wailer serves as an excellent example of how music can help bring about positive change. Its lyrics speak out in favor of justice for all while condemning those who harm others – making its message highly potency yet remaining soothing enough for easy listening.
“Legalize It,” another hit from Tosh’s band Tosh, was an unforgettable pop and reggae fusion tune that proved immensely catchy. Tosh wrote and composed it himself after leaving The Wailers as an act of protest against police brutality in Jamaica; its success helped popularize reggae music even further throughout America.
The Paragons were an iconic reggae band from Kingston, Jamaica renowned for their beautiful harmonies. Considered one of the top reggae acts from the 70s and 80s, their song here showcases how ska and rocksteady music was heavily influenced by reggae; making this an excellent song to jam out to with friends who enjoy music in general.
Junior Murvin was an influential singer in Jamaica during the 80s, contributing heavily to reggae music with songs such as “Police and Thieves.” This tune depicted two sides of crime within Jamaica – police versus thieves. This track became an instant classic and became used at events like London’s Notting Hill Carnival as its official anthem.
Reggae music often strikes an emotional chord within listeners. Joseph Byles’ song, “A Place Called Africa,” for instance, speaks about his struggles in Jamaica and longing to return home – making for an emotive yet profound performance sure to touch hearts everywhere who hears it.
3. “Police and Thieves” by Debroahe Glasgow
Beres Hammond was known for producing smooth production that brought Glasgow’s seductive voice together with smooth production – this created a hit worldwide and sampled by hip-hop artists throughout its lifespan.
Although UB40 are known for their pop reggae sound, this song demonstrates their versatility and ability to approach both heavy topics as well as lighter ones with ease. Their 1982 hit is an irresistibly catchy number about physical attraction and love that’s easy to sing along to; Jay Z and Kanye West have even referenced it in songs they have released themselves!
Wailer’s deep and thoughtful commentary about Rastafari religion makes this song so emotionally moving. He recalls growing up around this mystical group, while empathizing with their beliefs. A mellow reggae song with an important lesson still relevant today.
Dennis Brown first rose to fame during the ’70s, and continued producing hits throughout his career. One such hit song from him is called “Pass The Dutchie,” often misconstrued as being about marijuana use when in reality the lyrics address poverty and food insecurity.
Reggae continues to inspire musical brilliance. Grammy Award-winning Jamaican artist Koffee stands as an example of this genre’s future, using different instruments to craft her signature sound and deliver powerful messages with her lyrics. Listening to “Lockdown” reminds us all about change and resilience!
4. “Many Rivers To Cross” by Jimmy Cliff
This classic reggae song is an outstanding example of how Jamaican culture can be integrated into music. The lyrics highlight many of the struggles experienced by Jamaicans every day – hard times ahead and working to make ends meet, which this classic reggae piece successfully portrays. A great song which has touched so many lives.
Bob Marley may be best-known as the face of reggae music, but others have contributed just as significantly to its development. One such legend in reggae music history was Jimmy Cliff – also a producer and actor – a legend who left an imprint that has since been covered by other artists; one such classic being his hit single “Many Rivers To Cross.”
This song tells the tale of a forced laborer working the fields without receiving payment, while also detailing their treatment by their masters. With its soothing melody and emotive lyrics, this reggae song became immensely popular.
Cliff was actively touring and recording new albums throughout the early ’80s, featuring several of his tracks on the soundtrack for The Harder They Come movie which helped spread his name across the world. His influence was undeniable in helping reggae spread outside Jamaica’s shores and become accessible to audiences outside its boundaries.
“Blackheart Man” is another gentle reggae song that hits home. Featuring Bunny Wailer as one of Jamaica’s most celebrated singers, its gentle melody transports listeners into peace and love – but has also been widely criticized due to its commentary on Rastafarian beliefs which many perceive to be cultish behavior and practices.
5. “Pass The Dutchie” by Dennis Brown
Reggae music classic, Dennis Brown sings about poverty and food shortage. However, due to his use of “dutchie”, which actually refers to Dutch cooking pots; over time it became associated with cannabis due to Jamaican culture at that time.
As soon as this song was released, Jamaican acts were becoming international superstars. Thanks to Bob Marley’s success, subgenres of reggae like ska and rocksteady began gaining wider audiences, while acts such as UB40 — who blended reggae with pop music — made huge hits.
This song has become one of the most renowned reggae hits. It tells a poignant and inspirational tale about one man’s struggles to feed his family while trying to make ends meet, touching many hearts while providing hope at the same time. Notable features in this track include its horn section and keyboards.
Musical Youth, a British-Jamaican band from Birmingham, released this song as their signature tune in 1982 and it quickly became a global success. It became the first reggae music hit to reach number 10 on US Billboard charts and is widely recognized today. Musical Youth disbanded in 1985 but their singer Dennis Seaton went on to release multiple solo albums including Different Style, form XMY band and tour worldwide as an environmental activist.