Classic dancehall reggae songs. Recommended popular tracks.
There are many different genres within reggae.
For those who aren’t familiar with reggae, when you hear “dancehall,” you might picture an actual dance venue, right?
Dancehall is a style of reggae centered on programmed (electronic) beats, and it’s one of the most popular, mainstream genres in modern reggae.
This time, we’ve put together a collection of classic dancehall tracks.
We’ve picked a wide range—from timeless classics to the latest hits—so whether you’re well-versed in reggae or new to it, you’ll enjoy this selection!
Now, please take your time and enjoy.
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Dancehall reggae classics. Recommended popular songs (41–50)
Under Me Sleng TengWayne Smith
The producer King Jammy, who had a major influence on dancehall reggae, created the famous riddim “Sleng Teng” using a sound from a Casiotone.
Over that riddim, Wayne Smith laid lyrics he had been working on, completing the track.
Dancehall reggae masterpieces. Recommended popular tracks (51–60)
Break UpShelly Thunder
Shelly Thunder, known as the “Queen of Dancehall,” is highly respected by many reggae fans in Japan as well.
When you think of reggae DJs, the rough, husky voice and powerful riddims probably come to mind.
Because that style is mainstream, there aren’t many women active as DJs, but she is among the very best.
Her classic track “Break Up,” released in 1989, received high praise from reggae fans around the world.
Dem No Worry WeSUPER CAT
Super Cat is a legendary reggae musician who had a tremendous impact on the evolution of dancehall in the ’80s and ’90s.
He’s also affectionately known as “Don Dada.” His popularity wasn’t confined to Jamaica—many of his songs became hits in the United States as well.
One of his hit tracks, “Dem No Worry We,” is a classic masterpiece crafted in the quintessential dancehall style.
Be sure to check it out.
Fall For You AgainGREGORY ISAACS
Gregory Isaacs is one of the most popular artists, following Bob Marley and Dennis Brown.
Although he was active from the roots era, he moved closer to dancehall in the 1980s and left behind several tracks.
Among them, this song is particularly popular.
Soul ReaperTommy Lee Sparta
Tommy Lee Sparta, who created his own style called Gothic Dancehall.
With a bizarre style—wearing masks and using themes that evoke Satanism—he sparked a new fire in Jamaica’s dancehall scene.
Alms HouseCapleton
This is Capleton, a Rasta dancehall deejay.
In the 1980s, dancehall was dominated by songs about guns or “slackness,” which means raunchy, sexually explicit themes, and Capleton, despite being a Rasta, was originally one of those artists.
This is Capleton’s uptempo dancehall from that period.
I’ve Got Your ManLady Saw
She’s Lady Saw, you could call her the queenpin of the dancehall.
With her powerful deejay style and hardcore lyrics, she’s a female deejay who enjoys overwhelming popularity among women.
Lyrics and performances that turn femininity into a weapon are likely the secret to her appeal.