Recommended bands from Jamaica. Popular overseas bands.

Pressure DropToots & The Maytals

Pressure Drop

Toots and the Maytals, a legendary band representing Jamaica’s ska and reggae scenes.

Formed in Kingston in 1962, they have evolved alongside Jamaican music from ska to rocksteady to reggae.

Frederick “Toots” Hibbert’s soulful vocals command an overwhelming presence, often compared to Otis Redding.

In 1968, they became known as key figures who helped popularize the term “reggae” worldwide.

They won the Grammy Award for Best Reggae Album in 2004 and 2021, and notched 31 number-one hits in Jamaica.

Their album True Love features collaborations with a stellar lineup of artists and captivated fans around the globe.

A highly recommended band for music lovers who want to experience the essence of traditional ska and reggae sounds.

CRY TOUGHAlton Ellis & The Frames

Alton Ellis & The Flames – Cry Tough

Introducing Alton Ellis, Jamaica’s pioneering innovator of rocksteady.

Debuting in 1959, he produced hits such as “Rocksteady” and “My Time Is the Right Time.” His achievements have been widely recognized, including induction into the International Reggae and World Music Awards Hall of Fame in 2006.

In 2004, he was awarded the Order of Distinction by the Jamaican government.

Alton Ellis’s wistful melodies and powerful vocals are recommended not only for reggae fans but also for lovers of soul music.

Why not experience the depth of Jamaican music?

Reggae SunsplashBlack Uhuru

Black Uhuru – Reggae Sunsplash (London,1984)

Black Uhuru, a reggae group from Jamaica.

Formed in 1972 and named after “Uhuru,” meaning freedom, they have earned worldwide acclaim.

Their signature work, Anthem, which uniquely evolved the classic reggae sound, won the 1984 Grammy Award for Best Reggae Recording.

It’s characterized by heavy bass, driving drum beats, and sharp guitar riffs.

Despite lineup changes, they boast a career of over 45 years, with their 2018 album As The World Turns earning a Grammy nomination.

It’s music where tradition meets innovation—highly recommended not only for reggae fans but for anyone interested in Jamaican music.

Slavery daysBurning Spear

Burning Spear – Slavery days

Burning Spear is a legendary singer who represents Jamaica’s roots reggae.

Since his debut in 1969, he has produced hits such as “Door Peep” and “Marcus Garvey.” With political lyrics and a distinctive rhythm, he has continued to advocate for Black history and the importance of self-determination.

He has won the Grammy Award twice.

The story of how a meeting with Bob Marley set him on the path to music is also well known.

He’s perfect for those interested in African roots and social issues, and highly recommended for anyone who wants to experience the depth of Jamaican music.

In The RainChosen Few

The Chosen Few – In The Rain

A track where male choral work truly shines.

While boldly incorporating the sounds of soul and R&B, the underlying beat pulses with a distinctly Jamaican rhythm, evolving into a more mature sound.

I’m impressed by a beat that stands out without being drowned out, even with so many other musical elements in the mix.

International HerbCulture

Culture – International Herb (Live at Reggae On The River)

Culture is a Jamaican roots reggae band formed in 1976.

The members are lead vocalist Joseph Hill and harmony vocalists Albert Walker and Kenneth Dayes.

Their 1977 album Two Sevens Clash is regarded as one of the most influential works in reggae music.

Known for conveying social and political messages through their music, they are recorded in the Rolling Stone Record Guide as the only band to have multiple recordings all receive a five-star rating.

While preserving their traditional style, they have continued to tour worldwide and share their music.

Would you like to listen to some of the timeless classics that have left their mark on reggae history?

Double BarrelDave and Ansell Collins

Dave & Ansell Collins – Double Barrel

A unit consisting of vocalist Dave Barker and keyboardist Ansel Collins.

Their keyboard work is still full of things to learn even today.

They had a keen sense for trends, and their unfettered, genre-free songwriting was well received.