Popular Reggae: Western Music Artist Rankings [2026]

My ConversationSlim Smith85rank/position

Slim Smith & The Uniques – My Conversation

Slim Smith, who was the lead vocalist for The Techniques and The Uniques, produced many hit songs both during his time in vocal groups and after going solo.

This classic features his sweet, gentle, and soulful voice that is a delight to hear.

He lived a brief yet intense life of 25 years, marked by mental illness.

Go Down DehSpice, Sean Paul, Shaggy86rank/position

Spice, Sean Paul, Shaggy – Go Down Deh | Official Music Video

A collaboration by dancehall heavyweights like Spice, Sean Paul, and Shaggy, “Go Down Deh.” It’s a dancehall track with a dark aura, yet crafted with an outstandingly danceable structure—a true classic.

While Jamaica’s reggae scene is now largely dominated by trap music, there’s this curious phenomenon where top reggae musicians like them keep releasing authentic dancehall.

expand_lessRaise the rankingexpand_morelower

Ryo

Report a problem

Eye Of The Tiger (Ayur Tsyrenov Dub Remix)Survivor87rank/position

Survivor – Eye Of The Tiger (Official HD Video)

Originally released in 1982 by the American rock band Survivor and used as the theme song for the film Rocky III.

This version is a dub remix by singer, sound producer, and remixer Ayur Tsyrenov.

She’s RoyalTarrus Riley88rank/position

Tarrus Riley – She’s Royal | Official Music Video

Tarrus Riley is a reggae artist from Jamaica, also known for being the son of Jimmy Riley.

In 2006, he released the song “She’s Royal,” which became a major hit.

The song praises the beauty and strength of the woman he admires, capturing the hearts of many listeners.

Its melody and positive message continue to resonate in modern society, and it boasts over 100 million streams.

With its laid-back tempo and offbeat rhythm, it’s a track packed with classic reggae vibes.

Tide is HighThe Paragons89rank/position

The Paragons – “The Tide Is High” (Official Audio)

The Paragons were a rocksteady group fronted by lead vocalist John Holt, active through the ska, rocksteady, and reggae eras.

This song is a true classic, later covered by the rock band Blondie and becoming a worldwide hit.

It’s a tune almost everyone has heard at least once, but few may realize that The Paragons did the original.

Take this opportunity to listen to the original version!

Soul ReaperTommy Lee Sparta90rank/position

Tommy Lee Sparta – Soul Reaper (Official Music Video)

Tommy Lee Sparta, who created his own style called Gothic Dancehall.

With a bizarre style—wearing masks and using themes that evoke Satanism—he sparked a new fire in Jamaica’s dancehall scene.

54-46 Was My NumberToots & The Maytals91rank/position

54-46 Was My Number

A track that’s highly regarded by a wide range of listeners.

It has a rock vibe while still preserving the essence of reggae, letting you enjoy a hybrid, crossover feel.

Amazingly, Jeff Beck is part of the backing band.

It feels cool yet carries a fun mood—that’s exactly the unique charm of reggae.

Rock and reggae are a perfect match.

The mid-section guitar solo is cool, too.

It’s a gorgeous number that combines the best of rock and reggae—be sure to give it a listen.