Western Reggae Popularity Ranking [2026]

MedicineAlkaline8rank/position

Alkaline – Medicine (Official Music Video)

Alkaline, an artist who enjoyed immense popularity in the dancehall scene of the 2010s.

For a time he distanced himself from Jamaica, which gave him a somewhat negative image, but he’s now once again making the Jamaican reggae scene his main arena and is popular among young people.

Among his works, the one I especially recommend is Medicine.

It leans heavily into hip-hop, so it’s a good pick for those who aren’t into hard, full-on dancehall.

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Jamaican In New YorkShinehead9rank/position

Jamaican In New York

An American reggae artist originally from the UK, he was among those who most influenced the Jamaican scene throughout the 1980s and 1990s.

He established an original style that fused dancehall with R&B and hip-hop.

This song is a cover that reimagines Sting’s classic “Englishman in New York” as a Jamaican.

Murder She WroteChaka Demus & Pliers10rank/position

Murder She Wrote – Chaka Demus and Pliers

Released in 1992 by the Jamaican reggae duo Chaka Demus & Pliers, “Murder She Wrote” is an iconic reggae track.

The song seamlessly blends lively dancehall rhythms with a distinctive pop sensibility, showcasing the breadth of their musical style.

The lyrics focus on a woman named Maxine, whose moral issues contrast with her outward attractiveness, depicting her behavior through metaphor.

It’s especially recommended for those who want to enjoy the feel of a classic reggae beat.

Sweat (A La La Long)Inner Circle11rank/position

Inner Circle – Sweat (A La La Long)

Inner Circle is a legendary reggae band that originated in Jamaica and rose to global fame.

Their signature song, “Sweat (A La La Long),” has been lighting up charts around the world since its release in 1992.

The track is characterized by a catchy, rhythmic melody centered on the theme of love for a special woman.

What’s more, the upbeat intro has a unique charm that makes your heart start dancing the moment you hear it.

It’s perfect for laid-back moments and carries an encouraging message.

Why not step into the world of reggae that Inner Circle showcases, starting with this song?

I can see clearly nowJimmy Cliff12rank/position

Jimmy Cliff – I Can See Clearly Now

Jimmy Cliff is a reggae singer from Jamaica.

He began his musical career before reggae was established as a genre, and in 1972 he starred in the film The Harder They Come, bringing Jamaica’s situation at the time to the world’s attention.

He also contributed to the soundtrack album, which catapulted him to fame.

This song was used as the theme for the film Cool Runnings and in commercials for Japanese companies.

She’s RoyalTarrus Riley13rank/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.

Let’s Do It AgainJ Boog14rank/position

J Boog – Let’s Do It Again (Official Video)

J Boog is a reggae singer from the United States and is also one of the leading figures in Hawaii’s reggae scene.

His songs are mostly island reggae, so I think people who like surf music will find them easy to enjoy.

This track is one version over the “Major Riddim,” so I also recommend checking out songs by other artists on the same riddim.