Reggae music, with its roots in Jamaica, has produced some of the most iconic musicians in the world. Known for its distinctive rhythm and conscious lyrics, reggae has touched the hearts and minds of people across the globe. Among the most famous reggae singers, Bob Marley is often credited with popularizing the genre beyond Jamaica’s borders. However, many other artists have played a significant role in shaping reggae music and its sub-genres. From Peter Tosh to Gregory Isaacs, Jimmy Cliff to Bunny Wailer, and Toots to Marcia Griffiths, reggae has had an array of voices that have created a rich tapestry of music that has inspired generations.
These singers have not only been known for their exceptional vocal talent but also for their advocacy of social justice and their ability to bring a positive message to their listeners. Through their music, they have highlighted the struggles of marginalized people and advocated for unity and peace. Their work has not only transcended musical boundaries but has also influenced political and social movements around the world. Today, the legacy of these legendary singers continues to inspire younger generations of reggae artists who are carrying on their message of love, peace, and unity.
1. Bob Marley
Bob Marley was a Jamaican singer, songwriter, and musician who is widely considered to be one of the most influential musicians of the 20th century. Born in 1945 in Jamaica, Marley began his music career in the early 1960s as a member of the ska, rocksteady, and reggae band The Wailers.
Marley’s music was heavily influenced by his Rastafarian beliefs and the political and social issues of his time, and his songs often addressed topics such as poverty, oppression, and resistance. He was also a prolific songwriter, and many of his songs have become iconic anthems of peace and love, including “One Love,” “Redemption Song,” and “No Woman, No Cry.”
Sadly, Marley passed away at the age of 36 in 1981 following a battle with cancer, but his music and his message continue to inspire generations of fans around the world. He is widely regarded as one of the greatest musicians of all time, and his influence can still be felt in the reggae music of Jamaica and beyond.
Through his music, Marley was able to spread messages of hope, unity, and love, and his legacy continues to inspire musicians and fans alike to this day.
2. Peter Tosh
Peter Tosh was a Jamaican singer, songwriter, and musician who was a founding member of the reggae band The Wailers, along with Bob Marley and Bunny Wailer. Tosh’s music was heavily influenced by his political beliefs and his commitment to fighting for the rights of the oppressed.
In addition to his music, Tosh was also an outspoken advocate for the legalization of marijuana and for the rights of Rastafarians, and he used his platform to speak out against the injustices faced by the poor and marginalized in Jamaica and around the world.
Tosh’s solo career was marked by hits such as “Legalize It,” “Equal Rights,” and “Johnny B. Goode,” and his music continues to inspire fans and musicians alike to this day. He was posthumously inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1999, and his influence on the reggae music scene and on popular music in general cannot be overstated.
Although he passed away tragically in 1987 at the age of 42, Tosh’s legacy continues to live on through his music and his message of love, equality, and justice for all.
3. Desmond Dekker
Desmond Dekker was a Jamaican singer and songwriter who was instrumental in popularizing ska music in the 1960s. Born in Kingston, Jamaica, in 1941, Dekker began his music career in the early 1960s and quickly rose to fame with hits such as “007 (Shanty Town),” “Israelites,” and “Rudie Got Soul.”
Dekker’s music was characterized by its infectious rhythms, catchy melodies, and socially conscious lyrics, and his unique sound helped to shape the evolution of reggae music in Jamaica and beyond. His music has been covered by countless artists over the years, including The Clash, who famously covered “Police and Thieves” on their debut album.
Dekker’s influence on popular music cannot be overstated, and his legacy continues to inspire musicians and fans around the world. He passed away in 2006 at the age of 64, but his music lives on as a testament to his talent, his creativity, and his contribution to the global music scene.
4. Gregory Isaacs
Gregory Isaacs was a Jamaican singer and songwriter who was known for his soulful voice and smooth, romantic style. Born in Kingston, Jamaica in 1951, Isaacs began his music career in the late 1960s and went on to become one of the most beloved and influential reggae artists of all time.
Isaacs’ music was characterized by its laid-back rhythms, heartfelt lyrics, and his unique ability to convey emotion through his vocals. He was often called the “Cool Ruler” for his smooth, easy-going style, and his songs such as “Night Nurse,” “Red Rose for Gregory,” and “Hard Drugs” continue to be classics of the reggae genre.
Isaacs’ influence on popular music has been vast, and he has been cited as an inspiration by countless musicians over the years. He passed away in 2010 at the age of 59, but his music continues to live on as a testament to his talent, his creativity, and his contribution to the global music scene.
5. Jimmy Cliff
Jimmy Cliff is a Jamaican singer, songwriter, and actor who is regarded as one of the most influential figures in the history of reggae music. Born in 1948 in St. James, Jamaica, Cliff began his music career in the early 1960s and quickly rose to fame with hits such as “Wonderful World, Beautiful People,” “Many Rivers to Cross,” and “The Harder They Come.”
Cliff’s music was characterized by its powerful messages of hope, love, and social justice, and he became a symbol of resistance and empowerment for people around the world. His songs have been covered by countless artists over the years, and he has been cited as an inspiration by everyone from Bob Marley to Elvis Costello.
In addition to his music career, Cliff has also had success as an actor, appearing in films such as “The Harder They Come,” “Club Paradise,” and “Marked for Death.” He has won numerous awards and accolades throughout his career, including the Order of Merit, Jamaica’s third-highest honor.
Today, Jimmy Cliff continues to be an icon of Jamaican culture and a symbol of hope and inspiration for people around the world.
6. Dennis Brown
Dennis Brown was a Jamaican reggae singer and songwriter known for his smooth, soulful voice and prolific output. Born in Kingston in 1957, Brown began recording music at the age of 12 and went on to release over 75 albums and countless singles over the course of his career.
Brown’s music was characterized by its mix of reggae, soul, and R&B influences, and his songs often dealt with themes of love, social justice, and spiritual awakening. Some of his most beloved hits include “Money in my Pocket,” “Sitting and Watching,” and “Love Has Found Its Way.”
Brown was known for his ability to connect with audiences through his music and his live performances, and he became a beloved figure in the reggae community. He was dubbed the “Crown Prince of Reggae” by fans and critics alike, and his influence on the genre is still felt today.
Sadly, Brown passed away in 1999 at the age of 42, but his music continues to live on as a testament to his talent and his contribution to the global music scene.
7. Burning Spear
Burning Spear, born Winston Rodney, is a Jamaican roots reggae singer and songwriter who emerged in the 1970s as a leading voice in the Rastafarian movement. Born in Saint Ann’s Bay, Jamaica in 1945, Rodney first gained fame as a member of the group The Chosen Few before embarking on a successful solo career.
Known for his powerful and distinctive vocals, Burning Spear’s music is characterized by its heavy basslines, horn sections, and socially conscious lyrics. His songs often touch on themes of African liberation, spirituality, and political activism, and he is considered one of the pioneers of roots reggae.
Over the course of his career, Burning Spear has released over 20 studio albums and won two Grammy Awards for his albums “Jah Is Real” and “Calling Rastafari”. His influence on the reggae genre is immeasurable, and his music continues to inspire and move listeners around the world.
Today, Burning Spear remains a beloved figure in the reggae community and an important voice for social justice and human rights.
8. Toots
Toots Hibbert, born Frederick Nathaniel Hibbert, was a Jamaican singer, songwriter, and bandleader who played a pivotal role in the development of ska and reggae music. Born in May Pen, Jamaica in 1942, Toots started his career in the early 1960s as the lead singer of the band The Maytals.
Toots’ music blended elements of ska, rocksteady, and gospel music to create a unique sound that captured the spirit of Jamaica. Known for his powerful voice and dynamic stage presence, he became one of the most beloved figures in Jamaican music, earning the nickname “The Godfather of Reggae”.
Over the course of his career, Toots released dozens of albums and collaborated with some of the biggest names in the music industry, including Keith Richards, Bonnie Raitt, and Willie Nelson. He won a Grammy Award in 2005 for his album “True Love”, which featured collaborations with artists from a variety of genres.
Toots’ impact on Jamaican music and culture is immeasurable, and his music continues to inspire and uplift listeners around the world. He passed away in 2020, leaving behind a rich legacy that will continue to be celebrated for generations to come.
9. Sizzla
Sizzla Kalonji, born Miguel Orlando Collins, is a Jamaican reggae artist known for his socially conscious lyrics and powerful stage presence. Born in August Town, Jamaica in 1976, Sizzla began his career in the mid-1990s and quickly gained a following for his rootsy, spiritually charged music.
Sizzla’s music addresses a wide range of social and political issues, including poverty, inequality, and the struggle for freedom and justice. He is also known for his outspoken criticism of homophobia and discrimination, and his advocacy for peace and unity.
Over the course of his career, Sizzla has released over 50 albums and collaborated with some of the biggest names in reggae music, including Capleton, Buju Banton, and Damian Marley. His music has earned him a dedicated fanbase around the world, and he has been recognized with numerous awards and accolades, including multiple Grammy nominations.
Despite controversy surrounding some of his lyrics and public statements, Sizzla remains an influential figure in Jamaican music and a respected voice in the reggae community. His music continues to inspire and uplift listeners, and he remains a powerful force for positive change both in Jamaica and beyond.
10. Bunny Wailer
Bunny Wailer, born Neville O’Riley Livingston, was a Jamaican singer and songwriter who is widely regarded as one of the most influential figures in reggae music. Born in Kingston, Jamaica in 1947, Bunny Wailer began his career as a member of the iconic reggae group The Wailers alongside Bob Marley and Peter Tosh.
As a solo artist, Bunny Wailer released several critically acclaimed albums that showcased his distinctive vocal style and his commitment to the roots and culture of Jamaica. His music often explored themes of spirituality, social justice, and the struggle for liberation, and his lyrics were known for their poetic depth and intellectual insight.
Throughout his career, Bunny Wailer was recognized with numerous awards and accolades, including three Grammy Awards and Jamaica’s Order of Merit, the country’s fourth-highest honor. He was also a vocal advocate for the preservation and celebration of Jamaica’s cultural heritage, and he played a key role in establishing the annual Bob Marley Birthday Bash, a festival that celebrates the life and legacy of his former bandmate.
Bunny Wailer’s influence on reggae music and Jamaican culture is immeasurable, and his music continues to inspire and uplift listeners around the world. His passing in March 2021 was a great loss to the reggae community, but his legacy as a visionary artist and cultural icon will endure for generations to come.
11. Marcia Griffiths
Marcia Griffiths is a Jamaican singer and songwriter known for her soulful, powerful voice and her contributions to the development of reggae music. Born in Kingston, Jamaica in 1949, Griffiths began her career as a member of the vocal group The I-Threes, alongside Rita Marley and Judy Mowatt. The trio provided backing vocals for Bob Marley and the Wailers, and they became known for their smooth harmonies and distinctive sound.
As a solo artist, Griffiths continued to build on her reputation as one of the most talented and versatile singers in reggae music. She released numerous hit songs, including “Electric Boogie” (also known as “The Electric Slide”), which became a dance craze in the 1980s and continues to be popular today.
Griffiths’ music often explores themes of love, social justice, and spirituality, and her powerful vocals and dynamic stage presence have earned her fans around the world. She has been recognized with numerous awards and accolades, including the Order of Distinction, Jamaica’s fifth-highest honor, and the International Reggae and World Music Award for Outstanding Female Vocalist.
Today, Marcia Griffiths remains one of the most iconic figures in reggae music, and her music continues to inspire and uplift listeners around the world.
12. Ziggy Marley
Ziggy Marley is a Jamaican musician and songwriter who has become one of the most prominent figures in reggae music. Born in Trenchtown, Kingston, Jamaica in 1968, Ziggy Marley is the son of legendary musician Bob Marley and the lead vocalist of the reggae band Ziggy Marley and the Melody Makers.
From a young age, Ziggy Marley showed a talent for music, and he began performing with his siblings in their family band, The Melody Makers, in the late 1970s. The group’s music combined elements of reggae, pop, and R&B, and they quickly gained a following both in Jamaica and around the world.
As a solo artist, Ziggy Marley has continued to build on his family’s legacy while also forging his own musical path. He has released numerous albums that showcase his unique blend of reggae, rock, and pop influences, and his music often explores themes of social justice, love, and spirituality.
Ziggy Marley’s talent as a songwriter and musician has earned him numerous awards and accolades, including multiple Grammy Awards for Best Reggae Album. He has also become an outspoken advocate for various causes, including environmentalism and human rights, using his music to raise awareness and inspire positive change. Today, Ziggy Marley remains one of the most respected and influential figures in reggae music, and his music continues to inspire and uplift listeners around the world.
13. Janet Kay
Janet Kay is a British reggae singer and songwriter, known for her pioneering role in the development of the Lover’s Rock subgenre of reggae music in the 1970s. Born in London in 1958, Kay grew up in a musical family and began singing at a young age. In 1977, she was discovered by the producer Dennis Bovell, who invited her to record a cover of Minnie Riperton’s “Loving You” with his band, Matumbi. The song became a hit and established Kay as a leading figure in the Lover’s Rock scene.
Kay went on to release several successful singles and albums, including her debut album “Capricorn Woman” in 1978. Her smooth and soulful vocal style, combined with her use of Jamaican patois, helped to define the sound of Lover’s Rock and inspired a generation of female reggae artists. In addition to her own music career, Kay has also worked as a radio presenter and television personality, and has continued to perform and record music into the present day.
Kay’s impact on the reggae genre has been significant, both in the UK and internationally, and her contribution to the development of Lover’s Rock has been recognized with numerous awards and accolades over the years.
14. Shaggy
Shaggy, born Orville Richard Burrell, is a Jamaican-American singer, rapper, and DJ. He is known for his unique fusion of reggae, dancehall, and hip-hop music, which has earned him international recognition and numerous accolades. Shaggy’s career took off in the early 1990s with his breakthrough single “Oh Carolina,” which topped charts in the UK and around the world. He continued to release hit songs such as “Boombastic,” “It Wasn’t Me,” and “Angel,” which earned him a Grammy Award for Best Reggae Album in 1996.
Shaggy’s music is characterized by his deep, gravelly voice and catchy melodies. He often incorporates humorous and tongue-in-cheek lyrics, adding a playful element to his music. In addition to his successful music career, Shaggy has also been involved in various philanthropic activities, such as supporting the Bustamante Children’s Hospital in Jamaica and raising funds for hurricane relief efforts in the Caribbean.
Throughout his career, Shaggy has remained a prominent figure in the reggae and dancehall scene, collaborating with other notable artists such as Sting, Sean Paul, and Rikrok. His music continues to be popular around the world, earning him a loyal fan base and cementing his place as a legendary artist in the genre.
15. Yellowman
Yellowman, born Winston Foster, is a Jamaican reggae and dancehall artist who rose to fame in the 1980s. Known for his distinctive style of toasting, Yellowman became one of the most popular dancehall artists of his time and is considered one of the pioneers of the genre.
Yellowman’s music often features explicit lyrics about sex, violence, and social and political issues, which caused controversy and censorship in some countries. However, his lyrics also address important social issues, such as racism and poverty, and he has been recognized for his contributions to Jamaican music and culture.
In addition to his music career, Yellowman has also acted in films and television shows, including “Rockers” and “The Mighty Quinn”. He has also collaborated with a number of artists from various genres, including Run-DMC, KRS-One, and UB40.
Despite facing health issues in recent years, Yellowman continues to perform and record music. He remains an influential figure in the world of reggae and dancehall and has inspired countless artists in Jamaica and beyond.
16. Stephen Marley
17. Damian Marley
Damian Marley is a Jamaican reggae artist, born on July 21, 1978, in Kingston, Jamaica. He is the youngest son of the legendary Bob Marley and has been carrying forward his father’s legacy since he began his career in music in the late 1990s. He is a multitalented artist who has excelled not only as a musician but also as a songwriter, record producer, and entrepreneur.
Damian Marley’s music is known for its strong Rastafarian influence and socially conscious lyrics that highlight the struggles faced by people of African descent. His unique sound is a blend of traditional roots reggae, dancehall, hip hop, and rock influences, creating a style that is entirely his own. His albums have been critically acclaimed and have won several awards, including three Grammy Awards for Best Reggae Album.
In addition to his music career, Damian Marley is also known for his philanthropic work. He is the founder of the Ghetto Youths Foundation, which provides assistance to disadvantaged youth in Jamaica and other countries. He is also an advocate for the legalization of marijuana and has been actively involved in the movement to reform Jamaica’s drug laws.
Damian Marley is one of the most respected and influential reggae artists of his generation, and his music continues to inspire and uplift people around the world.
18. Ken Boothe
Ken Boothe is a Jamaican singer and songwriter, often referred to as the “King of Rocksteady.” Born in 1948 in Kingston, Jamaica, Boothe began his music career in the early 1960s as a member of a local vocal group called The Virtues. He gained recognition for his solo work in the mid-1960s, with hits such as “Puppet on a String” and “Say You,” which were popular not only in Jamaica but also in the UK and other parts of the world.
Boothe is known for his smooth, soulful voice and his ability to infuse his music with elements of gospel, R&B, and reggae. His music often touches on themes of love, social justice, and spirituality. He has collaborated with many other Jamaican musicians over the course of his career, including producer Duke Reid and singer Alton Ellis.
Throughout his career, Boothe has continued to tour and record new music. He has received numerous accolades for his contributions to Jamaican music, including induction into the Jamaica Music Hall of Fame and the Order of Distinction from the Jamaican government. He remains a beloved figure in the reggae and rocksteady genres, and his music continues to inspire new generations of musicians around the world.
19. Buju Banton
Buju Banton is a Jamaican dancehall and reggae artist who is known for his powerful voice and socially conscious lyrics. Born Mark Anthony Myrie in Kingston, Jamaica, in 1973, Banton began recording music at a young age and gained fame in the early 1990s with his dancehall hits like “Bogle” and “Man fi Dead.” He quickly gained a reputation as a controversial artist due to his sometimes violent and homophobic lyrics, but he also tackled issues of poverty, injustice, and inequality in his music.
In 1995, Banton’s music took a more spiritual turn when he became a Rastafarian and began recording more conscious reggae music. His 1995 album “Til Shiloh” is considered a classic in the genre and features hits like “Untold Stories” and “Murderer.” Banton’s music continued to evolve over the years, blending elements of dancehall, reggae, and other genres, and he remained a popular and influential artist throughout the 2000s.
In 2011, Banton was sentenced to 10 years in prison on drug charges, but he was released in 2018 and has since returned to recording and performing music. He remains an important figure in Jamaican music and a powerful voice for social justice and change.
20. Beres Hammond
Beres Hammond is a Jamaican singer, songwriter and producer known for his soulful voice and classic reggae sound. He was born on August 28, 1955, in Annotto Bay, Jamaica, and began his music career in the 1970s as a member of the group Zap Pow. He later pursued a solo career and became a prominent figure in the reggae scene, releasing numerous hit songs and albums over the years.
Hammond’s music often explores themes of love, relationships, and social issues, and his smooth vocals and soulful melodies have earned him a loyal fan base both in Jamaica and around the world. He is also known for his distinctive “lover’s rock” style, which blends elements of reggae, R&B, and soul music.
In addition to his solo work, Hammond has collaborated with many other notable musicians, including Shaggy, Buju Banton, and Maxi Priest. He has also won numerous awards throughout his career, including the Order of Jamaica, one of the country’s highest honors, in recognition of his contributions to Jamaican music.
Despite his success, Hammond remains humble and committed to his craft, and continues to tour and perform to this day, spreading his message of love and unity through his music.
Simon Robinson is a frequent contributor to Singers Room. Since 2005, Singersroom has been the voice of R&B around the world. Connect with us via social media below.
