Know Yuh History

Reggae Music is much more than Bob Marley and Marijuana. Reggae has a very intricate history, rich with cultural influences from all over the world. I'll give a brief, very abridged history:

In the 1950’s, Jamaica was pumping the sounds of American R’n’B music. On clear nights, Jamaican radio towers could pick up the signals coming from New Orleans and Florida. The sounds of Doo-Wop, R&B, emerging Rock n' Roll, and Gospel influenced the traditional Calypso sound, creating popular new sounds.

"Ska" was one of the first of these new styles. It maintained a quick tempo, and was unique for its syncopated up-beat played by the guitar. Prince Buster is considered the first to create this and play it for the masses with his sound system.

Here's a short clip of Jamaican Superstar Jimmy Cliff playing a soundsystem party in the heyday of Ska:




The "Sound System" is a portable sound system (usually on the backs of a truck) to play this music for block parties and outside gatherings. Because many Jamaicans did not have access to personal radios, these sound systems were the only way to hear new music, and thus became very significant social gatherings.

By the mid-60’s, a new form of music was evolving and taking over popularity in Jamaica called Rock Steady. With this style, the beat was slowed down and the emphasis was shifted to vocals. This slowed down tempo also left more room for the bass line to leave holes in its rhythm, as opposed to the walking lines heard in ska. This is the stage that Bob Marley and the Wailers first made an appearance, along with The Melodians, John Holt, The Heptones, and many others.

Here's an example of the Rocksteady sound: "Crying Over You" by the incredible Ken Boothe.



I know, I know.... by FAR the most exciting video clip ever.... I kind of like it, though. Anyway...

The 70’s saw the creation and international success of Roots Reggae. This is the sub-genre most often thought of when Reggae is mentioned. With this style, the tempo was slowed down even more, and the electric bass was lower and more prominent in the mix. Along with this change in musical approach was the increased intensity and depth of the lyrical content. Influenced by suffering, corrupt politicians and police, and the religion of Rastafari, the lyrics of Roots music ranged from powerful protest music to beautiful spiritual music. It had a passion that moved (and still moves) people around the globe.

Bob Marley is synonymous with Roots Reggae, so here's another Wailers clip: Africa Unite Live from Santa Barbara.



So, now you have an idea... I'm crazy for Reggae but am in no way an expert. There is still much studying, listening, and dancing left to do!

Stay tuned for more on modern Reggae, Rastafarianism, Dubplate Culture, and anything else I can get into while the stanking house is NOT selling...