![[Reggae] Introducing Classic Dub Tracks | Featuring Japanese Reggae and International Reggae!](https://i.ytimg.com/vi_webp/DES4EfxJfUA/maxresdefault.webp)
[Reggae] Introducing Classic Dub Tracks | Featuring Japanese Reggae and International Reggae!
For those who love reggae, dub is one of the most familiar genres.
To put it simply, dub means altering a track’s rhythm and adding effects.
In other words, it’s basically a remix.
In reggae, it’s also common to lay the vocals of a different song over an existing track.
This time, we’ve picked classic dub tunes from both Western music and Japanese reggae.
Please sit back, relax, and enjoy until the end.
[Reggae] Introducing Classic Dub Tracks | Featuring Japanese Reggae and International Reggae! (1–10)
Red spider “0”(apollostyle0)APOLLO
Red Spider is a legendary sound system—arguably Japan’s number one.
Junior, the soundman, has achieved unparalleled success for a soundman, even filling the Budokan on his own.
Apollo, a junior member of their Kaeru Studio, is the artist performing “Red spider ‘0’ (apollostyle0).” He’s a DJ known for rapid-fire delivery and is among the best in Japan when it comes to speed.
You can fully enjoy his fast flow in this DUB, and thanks to substantial rearrangements, there’s plenty more to appreciate as well.
Rhyme Wave Phrase DisciplesCHEHON
CHEHON is a DJ from Tsuruhashi in Osaka—arguably the most famous reggae DJ in Japan.
His track “Inpakuto” (also read as “Inwakuto,” a play on words blending “rhyme,” “wave,” and “phrase”) is one of his signature works, just like “Midori,” and it became a nationwide hit.
This version was released on TAK-Z’s channel—he’s also active in the reggae scene—but the original riddim and mix were handled by Tela-C of Infinity16.
As the title suggests, it’s an arrangement that’s downright “too ragga,” and plenty of listeners are bound to be hooked.
Old schoolKing Kong feat.Burro Banton & Pinchers
The heavyweight DJ Bro Banton, who’s gained popularity for his powerful gravelly voice.
The legendary DJ King Kong, who fired up the dancehall scene in the 1980s.
And the singjay Pinchers, known for his distinctively sweet, slightly nasal tone—the classic track “Old School.” It might not ring a bell if you only listen to Japanese reggae, but for those familiar with Jamaican reggae, it’s a well-known anthem.
Be sure to compare this DUB with the original!
Guiding DubIMPACT ALLSTARS
Impact All Stars is a group made up of members considered “all-stars,” formed under the sub-label Impact, itself part of Vincent Chin’s label Randy’s—which, along with Lee “Scratch” Perry and others, supported the dawn of dub.
They’re an essential group for anyone looking to understand reggae dub.
From their classic album Java Java Java Java, the track I recommend is Guiding Dub.
It’s a perfect song for experiencing the early days of reggae dub, so be sure to check it out.
Ragga MedleyKENTY GROSS
KENTY GROSS, who’s popular for his uniquely high-pitched, raspy voice, is a DJ known for powerful performances that instantly transform the vibe on the dance floor.
One of his signature tracks is “Ragga Medley.” The original is already a hard-hitting classic, but it pairs exceptionally well with TAK-Z’s “Promise Land,” the riddim used in this dub, amplifying its impact even further.
If you’re into ragga-style tracks, be sure to check it out.
familyNatural Weapon
Natural Weapon, known as a DJ from KAERU Studio, stands out among many DJs for his powerful, raspy voice and highly regarded performances.
Having originally started as a selector, he also has a deep catalog of tracks and releases works in a variety of styles.
Among them, “Kazoku” (Family) is known as one of his more laid-back pieces, and it pairs perfectly with the riddim.
Be sure to check it out.
greenCHEHON
At first glance it seems like a single-minded love song, but behind it lies a clever device that sparks the listener’s imagination.
A heart wrenched away, an overwhelming sense of unity and euphoria that makes life without it unthinkable.
Those irresistible, spellbound feelings are rendered in CHEHON’s trademark, straight-talking Osaka-dialect lyrics.
Released in May 2006 as the title track of an indie mini-album, the song caught fire in the club scene despite having no specific tie-in.
On nights when you want to immerse yourself in music, this track can work like magic—making reggae’s rhythms feel many times more comfortable and compelling.