20+ Caribbean Figures Who Changed Reggae Music
Originally Posted: February 1st 2025.
Reggae, a vibrant musical genre born from the heart of Jamaica in the late 1960s, has become a global phenomenon. A rich tapestry woven from the threads of ska, rocksteady, mento, and African rhythms, reggae is more than just music; it's a cultural expression. Characterized by its distinctive offbeat rhythm, socially conscious lyrics, and often spiritual themes, reggae has resonated with people across the world, carrying messages of peace, love, unity, and resistance. From its humble beginnings in the Kingston ghettos, reggae has evolved, influencing countless other genres and becoming a powerful voice for social change. This list celebrates 25 of the most influential artists who shaped the sound and message of reggae, leaving an enduring legacy on music history.
1. Bob Marley (February 6, 1945 – May 11, 1981)
Robert Nesta Marley, arguably reggae's most iconic figure, was a Jamaican singer-songwriter and guitarist who propelled the genre to international stardom. His lyrics championed peace, love, and unity, resonating with audiences worldwide. He was posthumously awarded a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award in 2001.
2. Peter Tosh (October 19, 1944 – September 11, 1987)
Winston Hubert McIntosh, known as Peter Tosh, was a Jamaican singer, songwriter, and guitarist, and a core member of the Wailers alongside Bob Marley and Bunny Wailer. Tosh was known for his militant stance, outspoken lyrics, and advocacy for social justice.
Photo: Roy Rochlin / Getty Images
3. Bunny Wailer (April 10, 1947 – March 2, 2021)
Neville O'Riley Livingston, or Bunny Wailer, was a Jamaican singer-songwriter and percussionist, also a founding member of the Wailers. He was known for his spiritual depth and exploration of Rastafarian themes in his music. He won three Grammy Awards for Best Reggae Album.
4. Burning Spear (born March 1, 1945)
Winston Rodney, better known as Burning Spear, is a Jamaican roots reggae singer, songwriter, and musician. A Rastafarian, his music is deeply spiritual and often addresses social and political injustices. He won a Grammy Award for Best Reggae Album.
5. Toots Hibbert (December 8, 1942 – September 12, 2020)
Frederick Nathaniel Hibbert, known as Toots Hibbert, was the lead singer of Toots & The Maytals. His powerful, soulful voice and socially conscious lyrics made him a reggae legend.
6. Lee "Scratch" Perry (March 20, 1936 – August 29, 2021)
Rainford Hugh Perry, known as Lee "Scratch" Perry, was a Jamaican record producer, singer, and songwriter renowned for his innovative studio techniques. A pioneer of dub music, his experimental approach revolutionized reggae production.
7. Augustus Pablo (August 2, 1954 – May 17, 1999)
Horace Swaby, known as Augustus Pablo, was a Jamaican roots reggae and dub keyboardist, producer, and arranger. His mastery of the melodica made him a unique and influential figure in reggae's instrumental landscape.
8. Joe Higgs (June 3, 1937 – December 18, 1998)
Joseph Abraham Higgs, often called the "Godfather of Reggae," was a Jamaican singer, songwriter, and producer. He mentored many aspiring reggae artists, including Bob Marley and Peter Tosh, leaving a lasting impact on the genre.
9. Prince Buster (May 23, 1938 – September 11, 2016)
Cecil Bustamente Campbell, known as Prince Buster, was a Jamaican ska and rocksteady singer, songwriter, and producer. A key figure in the development of Jamaican music, he helped pave the way for reggae.
Photo: Ron Howard/Popperfoto/Popperfoto via Getty Images
10. Desmond Dekker (July 16, 1941 – May 25, 2006)
Desmond Adolphus Dacres, known as Desmond Dekker, was a Jamaican ska and reggae singer-songwriter. His international hit "Israelites" was one of the first reggae songs to gain widespread popularity.
Photo: K & K Ulf Kruger OHG/Redferns
11. Jimmy Cliff (born July 30, 1948)
James Chambers, known as Jimmy Cliff, is a Jamaican ska and reggae musician, multi-instrumentalist, singer, and actor. He achieved international fame with songs like "The Harder They Come" and has starred in several films. He has won one Grammy Award.
Photo: Fin Costello/Getty Images
12. Dennis Brown (May 1, 1957 – July 1, 1999)
Dennis Emmanuel Brown, known as the "Crown Prince of Reggae," was a Jamaican reggae singer. His smooth vocals and prolific output made him a beloved figure in the genre.
13. Gregory Isaacs (July 15, 1951 – October 25, 2010)
Gregory Anthony Isaacs was a Jamaican reggae singer, songwriter, and producer, known for his "Cool Ruler" persona and romantic ballads.
14. Freddie McGregor (born June 27, 1956)
Frederick Anthony McGregor is a Jamaican reggae singer, musician, and record producer. He has had a long and successful career, exploring various styles within reggae.
Photo: Beth Lesser
15. Sugar Minott (May 25, 1956 – July 10, 2010)
Lincoln Barrington Minott, known as Sugar Minott, was a Jamaican reggae singer, producer, and sound system operator. He was influential in the development of dancehall music.
16. Jacob Miller (May 4, 1952 – March 23, 1980)
Jacob Miller was a Jamaican reggae singer, best known as the lead vocalist for the band Inner Circle. His energetic performances and soulful voice made him a popular figure in the late 1970s. His first recording session was with the famous Clement "Sir Coxsone" Dodd in the late 1960s. Miller recorded and toured with Inner Circle until he and his son died in a car accident in 1980. Miller was only 27 years old.
17. Junior Murvin (born 1946 or 1949 – December 2, 2022)
Junior Murvin, also known as Junior Soul, was a Jamaican roots reggae singer. His distinctive falsetto voice and conscious lyrics made him a respected figure in the reggae community.
18. U-Roy (September 21, 1942 – February 17, 2021)
Ewart Beckford, better known as U-Roy, was a Jamaican deejay, considered one of the pioneers of toasting (a style of vocalizing over a rhythm). His distinctive vocal style and influence on the development of deejaying make him a crucial figure in reggae history.
19. Winston "Niney" Holness (born 1951)
A highly influential Jamaican record producer, "Niney the Observer" was instrumental in shaping the sound of reggae, working with many of the genre's biggest names. While not a performer himself, his production work was essential to the development of reggae.
BANDS WHO PLAYED AN INSTRUMENTAL ROLE IN REGGAE
While individual artists often take center stage, the history of reggae is also rich with the contributions of exceptional bands. These groups, through their collaborative energy, innovative arrangements, and shared musical vision, have played a crucial role in shaping the sound and direction of reggae music. From pioneering groups that laid the foundation for the genre to those who pushed its boundaries and explored new sonic territories, reggae bands have consistently delivered powerful messages and infectious rhythms. This section celebrates some of the most influential bands that have left an indelible mark on reggae, showcasing their unique contributions and lasting impact on the global music scene. These bands weren't just backing musicians; they were integral parts of the creative process, often writing songs, crafting arrangements, and bringing a distinct collective energy to the stage and studio. Their combined talents helped define the sound of reggae, proving that the power of music is often amplified when shared:
The Abyssinians: This vocal trio, consisting of Bernard Collins, Donald Manning, and Linford Manning, were known for their harmonies and Rastafarian-influenced lyrics. Their songs like "Satta Massagana" are considered reggae classics.
Culture: Another influential vocal trio, Culture, featured Joseph Hill, Albert Walker, and Kenneth Dayes. Their socially conscious lyrics and tight harmonies made them a prominent force in roots reggae. Joseph Hill's powerful vocals were a defining characteristic of their sound.
Third World: This Jamaican reggae band, formed in 1973, blended reggae with elements of funk, soul, and pop, creating a unique and accessible sound that helped broaden reggae's appeal.
Israel Vibration: Formed by Cecil "Skelly" Spence, Lascelles "Wiss" Bulgin, and Albert "Apple" Craig, Israel Vibration overcame physical disabilities to become a powerful and influential reggae group, known for their harmonies and Rastafarian lyrics.
Black Uhuru: This Jamaican reggae group, known for their dynamic performances and socially conscious lyrics, achieved international success and helped to popularize roots reggae in the 1980s.
Sly & Robbie: This legendary Jamaican rhythm section, consisting of Sly Dunbar and Robbie Shakespeare, has played on countless reggae tracks,
From its roots in the vibrant streets of Jamaica to its global reach, reggae music has left an undeniable mark not just in the Caribbean, but on the world. The artists and bands spotlighted in this list represent just a fraction of the immense talent that has contributed to this genre. Their music, often infused with messages of social justice, spiritual reflection, and universal love, continues to inspire and uplift generations. Reggae's rhythms and heartfelt lyrics have transcended cultural boundaries and geographic borders, uniting people from all walks of life. The legacy of these influential figures lives on not only through their recordings but also through the countless artists they have inspired and the evolution of dancehall. As reggae continues to evolve and adapt, its core message of unity, resilience, and the power of music remains as relevant as ever.