What is Reggae music?

Origin of Reggae

Jamaica, late 1960s. Evolved from ska and rocksteady. The accent shifted from the second and fourth beats to an even offbeat skank. Bob Marley and the Wailers brought reggae to global audiences in the early 1970s. Rootsy Rastafarian themes -- resistance, spirituality, African identity -- are central to the classic form.

Era: 1968--present

Defining sound of Reggae

Guitar and keyboard play offbeat chords. Bass is melodic and prominent. Drums emphasise the one-drop pattern (kick on beat 3 only in classic roots). BPM typically 60-90. Lyrics address spiritual, political, and romantic themes. Reverb-heavy production is standard.

Pioneers of Reggae

• Bob Marley
• Toots Hibbert
• Jimmy Cliff
• Lee Scratch Perry
• Augustus Pablo

Key Reggae artists

• Burning Spear
• Steel Pulse
• Sizzla
• Damian Marley
• Chronixx

Related genres

Frequently asked questions about Reggae

When did Reggae start?

Reggae originated 1968--present. Jamaica, late 1960s.

Who invented Reggae?

Reggae was pioneered by Bob Marley, Toots Hibbert, Jimmy Cliff, Lee Scratch Perry, Augustus Pablo. Jamaica, late 1960s. Evolved from ska and rocksteady. The accent shifted from the second and fourth beats to an even offbeat skank. Bob Marley and the Wailers brought reggae to global audiences in the early 1970s. Rootsy Rastafarian themes -- resistance, spirituality, African identity -- are central to the classic form.

Is Reggae still popular?

Reggae continues to be listened to and has influenced countless artists since its origins. Key contemporary artists in the genre include Burning Spear, Steel Pulse, Sizzla, Damian Marley.

What does Reggae sound like?

Guitar and keyboard play offbeat chords. Bass is melodic and prominent. Drums emphasise the one-drop pattern (kick on beat 3 only in classic roots). BPM typically 60-90. Lyrics address spiritual, political, and romantic themes. Reverb-heavy production is standard.

What is the difference between Reggae and dub?

Reggae and dub are related genres that share some characteristics but differ in origin, instrumentation, and production approach. See the dub definition page for a full comparison.