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| A Short History of Reggae Music |
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The music, which
stems from the Caribbean has entertained and been an influence on the
rest of the world. Calypso, ska, rock steady and dancehall have evolved
from each other and fused into what we know as reggae music. African rhythms and American blues have also played a part in forming the genre. The music is characterized by strong bass lines and the bass drum beating out time. Jamaica is the home of this music, with many homegrown musicians and record producers who have developed the distinctive style. Lee 'Scratch' Perry is the most famous producer, responsible for launching many careers. Artists such as Burning Spear and Horace Andy listen to reggae music beyond the island but it fell to Bob Marley to popularize it around the world. Marley had several hits, such as No Woman, No Cry, Buffalo Soldier and Redemption Song. He enjoyed legendary status and was given a state funeral in Jamaica, when he died. Crossover singers such as Johnny Nash, Jimmy Cliff and Desmond Dekker had success in the British pop charts in addition to Marley. Bands such as The Police, UB40, Selector, The Clash and The Specials fused reggae music with rock. The British band UB40 were one of the first multi racial groups in the UK. Many reggae songs have lyrics which address social issues, such as poverty and political freedom. These are the anthems of the poor, who grow up in shanty towns, struggling to make ends meet. Some songs are about the beliefs of the Rastafarian religion, of which Marley was a practitioner. There are explorations of spirituality, invoking God, or Jah as he is called. Some are controversial in their defense of the use of cannabis which Rastafarians advocate. In all its forms, reggae has influenced and led on to other forms of music, namely drum and bass and hip hop. There hasn't been anyone to take over from Marley's mantle so far and rap and R & B dominate the charts at the moment. The history of Reggae music demands another charismatic figure to spread the word. It has achieved a lot, coming out of a small island with early recordings produced on basic equipment. People responded to the melodic simplicity of the music and the heartfelt lyrics. There was always a high standard of musicianship and a direct connection between the artists and the fans. Be assured that reggae music will rise again. You can't keep a good thing down. |
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