#did-you-know · 10 months ago

What are the top 10 Genres of Jamaican music, starting from the 1960's?

Jamaica is known for its vibrant and diverse music scene that has captured the hearts of people from all over the world. In this blog post, we will explore the top 10 genres of Jamaican music from the 1960s to the present day. Get ready to discover the sounds that have put Jamaica on the musical map!


Jamaican music has a rich history that spans over several decades. From the 1960s to present day, we have seen the emergence of various genres that have come to define our unique sound. Here are the top 10 genres of Jamaican music, starting from the 1960s:

1. Ska: This upbeat and lively genre originated in the 1960s and is characterized by its fast-paced rhythm and horn section.

2. Rocksteady: A slower and more soulful version of ska, rocksteady emerged in the late 1960s and is known for its smooth basslines and romantic lyrics.

3. Reggae: Perhaps the most well-known Jamaican genre, reggae gained international recognition in the 1970s with artists like Bob Marley and the Wailers. Its laid-back rhythm and socially conscious lyrics have made it a beloved genre worldwide.

4. Dub: Dub emerged in the 1970s as a subgenre of reggae and is characterized by its heavy use of reverb, echo, and other sound effects to create a trippy, otherworldly sound.

5. Dancehall: This high-energy genre emerged in the 1980s and is characterized by its fast-paced rhythm, catchy hooks, and often explicit lyrics.

6. Ragga: A subgenre of dancehall, ragga incorporates more traditional Jamaican elements such as the use of patois and riddims.

7. Roots reggae: Similar to traditional reggae, roots reggae emphasizes spiritual and social messages in its lyrics and often incorporates elements of Rastafarianism.

8. Soca: Though not strictly a Jamaican genre, soca has become popular in Jamaica over the years due to its infectious rhythm and Caribbean roots.

9. Gospel reggae: This genre blends elements of reggae with Christian gospel music, creating a powerful and uplifting sound.

10. Afrobeat: Another genre not strictly Jamaican in origin, Afrobeat has become popular in Jamaica in recent years due to its fusion of African rhythms with funk and jazz.

No matter what your taste in music, there is something for everyone in the rich and diverse landscape of Jamaican music. So put on your dancing shoes and get ready to move to the beat of the island!