Reggae

Many people know reggae music via the songs of Bob Marley, the Jamaican superstar who brought reggae to a mass audience. Originally an adaptation of American jazz and R&B, as heard by Jamaicans on their radios, the music also incorporates elements of calypso and blues.

Reggae has proven itself endlessly adaptable and universally popular. Other terms rolled up in the genre are ska and rocksteady, while links to the Rastafarian religion also add a socio-political element. In the UK, Caribbean migrants brought music to their new home, leading to a popularisation of ska and reggae thanks to bands such as UB40, Madness, and The Specials.

With its loping rhythms and laid-back delivery, the spiritual children of Bob Marley continue to reach new generations of fans who are more than happy to sit down to enjoy the vibe with some herbal…tea. (What did you think we were going to say?)