Recommended bands from Jamaica. Popular overseas bands.

Tomorrow PeopleZiggy Marley And The Melody Makers

Ziggy Marley And The Melody Makers – Tomorrow People

Ziggy Marley and the Melody Makers are a reggae band representing Jamaica.

Composed of Bob Marley’s children, they formed in New York in 1979.

With a distinctive sound that fuses pop and roots reggae, they won a Grammy in 1988 for the album Conscious Party.

Their songs, imbued with social messages, have garnered widespread support.

Even after the band disbanded, Ziggy continued to thrive as a solo artist.

Since 2003, he has released albums such as Dragonfly and Love Is My Religion, achieving further success.

They’re recommended not only for reggae fans but also for a wide range of music listeners thanks to their pop elements.

Let Me InTHE SENSATIONS

THE SENSATIONS – ”LET ME IN” (1962)

The Sensations are bringing a fresh breeze to Japan’s punk rock scene.

Formed in Tokyo in 2008, their music is rooted in punk and ska while incorporating elements of ’60s rock ’n’ roll and soul, creating a distinctive style that’s highly appealing.

Centered around vocalist Osawa 17, the band performs as a five-piece.

Their signature song, “Baby, It’s You,” has captured many fans’ hearts with its catchy melodies and powerful performance.

Their live shows are nothing short of breathtaking—energetic stagecraft has earned them fervent support both at home and abroad.

They’re a must-listen not only for punk rock fans but also for anyone looking to discover something new.

The ResultThe Upsetters

THE UPSETTERS The Result アップセッターズ

The Upsetters, a band that played a crucial role in the development of Jamaican reggae music.

Formed in 1968 and led by producer Lee “Scratch” Perry, they collaborated with numerous musicians.

Their music spans a wide range of genres—not only reggae but also dub and ska—and produced UK hits such as “Man from M.

I.

5” and “Return of Django.” Notably, they collaborated with Bob Marley and Peter Tosh, releasing many classic tracks together.

From 1974 onward, they established a distinctive sound that incorporated psychedelic elements.

They’re a recommended band not only for reggae fans but also for anyone who wants to explore a variety of musical styles.

Stranger in TownThe Crystalites

Stranger In Town

The unsung heroes who supported Jamaica’s reggae scene—that’s The Crystalites.

Led by Derrick Harriott, this studio band began activity in the mid-1960s.

Bringing together renowned session musicians active in Kingston, they played a crucial role during the transition from rocksteady to reggae.

Their signature work, The Undertaker, is an instrumental album released in 1970.

Centered around the organ, it showcases diverse musicality, from Wild West–themed tracks to covers of the Beatles.

It’s a must-listen for those who want to trace the history of Jamaican music or delve deep into the heart of reggae.

CRY TOUGHAlton Ellis & The Frames

Alton Ellis & The Flames – Cry Tough

Introducing Alton Ellis, Jamaica’s pioneering innovator of rocksteady.

Debuting in 1959, he produced hits such as “Rocksteady” and “My Time Is the Right Time.” His achievements have been widely recognized, including induction into the International Reggae and World Music Awards Hall of Fame in 2006.

In 2004, he was awarded the Order of Distinction by the Jamaican government.

Alton Ellis’s wistful melodies and powerful vocals are recommended not only for reggae fans but also for lovers of soul music.

Why not experience the depth of Jamaican music?

Reggae SunsplashBlack Uhuru

Black Uhuru – Reggae Sunsplash (London,1984)

Black Uhuru, a reggae group from Jamaica.

Formed in 1972 and named after “Uhuru,” meaning freedom, they have earned worldwide acclaim.

Their signature work, Anthem, which uniquely evolved the classic reggae sound, won the 1984 Grammy Award for Best Reggae Recording.

It’s characterized by heavy bass, driving drum beats, and sharp guitar riffs.

Despite lineup changes, they boast a career of over 45 years, with their 2018 album As The World Turns earning a Grammy nomination.

It’s music where tradition meets innovation—highly recommended not only for reggae fans but for anyone interested in Jamaican music.

Slavery daysBurning Spear

Burning Spear – Slavery days

Burning Spear is a legendary singer who represents Jamaica’s roots reggae.

Since his debut in 1969, he has produced hits such as “Door Peep” and “Marcus Garvey.” With political lyrics and a distinctive rhythm, he has continued to advocate for Black history and the importance of self-determination.

He has won the Grammy Award twice.

The story of how a meeting with Bob Marley set him on the path to music is also well known.

He’s perfect for those interested in African roots and social issues, and highly recommended for anyone who wants to experience the depth of Jamaican music.