Reggae music has spread worldwide, often being influenced by local instruments and merging with other genres. Some artists use reggae music to address social justice issues while others focus on more personal themes like love or socializing. Some also encourage cannabis use which Rastafaris consider sacrosanct (referred to as herb, weed or sinsemilla).
European
Reggae music is a Caribbean genre that marries R&B, jazz, traditional African, and Latin musical traditions into one cohesive sound. Reggae primarily utilizes drums with high-pitched snares that create its distinctive rhythm as well as its signature bass line that draws listeners in with its beats.
Jamaican reggae music has quickly become a worldwide trend, with musicians like Sean Paul and Dua Lipa reaching the pinnacle of European music charts with their collaboration No Lie, reaching number one in several countries such as the UK Singles Chart. No Lie was widely acclaimed for its energetic delivery which earned it recognition as one of the fastest-streaming songs ever in Reggae history.
Tip Pon It and Body featuring Migos were both included on Mad Love the Prequel album that earned double platinum certifications as part of its single. Both reached number one on Billboard Reggae Digital Songs chart for US Billboard Reggae Digital Songs charts as well. It marked a first for US-based artist.
Other dancehall singers have seen similar success with their tracks. Shenseea’s 2021 album features Blessed, which has received worldwide acclaim and received gold certification status in Canada. Additionally, other popular tracks from Shenseea include So Mi Like and Wine Slow.
Gyptian’s Hold Yuh, which has become an international favorite, reached number 29 on the US Billboard Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs chart and spent over one year on the UK Singles Chart.
Musical Youth found their first international success with Road to Zion from their Welcome to Jamrock album. Featuring Ella Fitzgerald’s Russian Lullaby as its sample and discussing socioeconomic and social issues in Jamaica, it became one of the first singles ever to reach the top 40 of both UK Singles Chart and US charts; also it marked first song from Jamaican group to make charts worldwide.