Popular Reggae: Western Music Artist Rankings [2025]

Magnificent (Dave Aude’ Club Dub Remix)U292rank/position

U2 – Magnificent

Originally released as a single by U2 in 2009, this track became a hit in the United States and various European countries.

Numerous remix versions have been released to date.

This dub remix is by Dave Audé, an American house music DJ and remixer.

(I Can’t Help) Falling In Love With YouUB4093rank/position

UB40 – (I Can’t Help) Falling In Love With You (Remastered 2002)

They’re a British reggae-pop band whose name comes from the title of the UK unemployment benefit claim form.

The cover of their debut album also mimics that form.

This track is a globally successful hit, but surprisingly, it’s a cover of an Elvis Presley song.

Energy DrinkVirtual Riot94rank/position

Virtual Riot – Energy Drink (FREE DOWNLOAD)

This track is one of the signature early works by Virtual Riot, a producer who captivates the world with precision sound design.

As the title suggests, it’s an upper-tune that delivers a jolt of energy, like you’ve just downed an energy drink.

The song features a roller-coaster progression, with metallic sounds and razor-sharp bass stabs popping out one after another.

In the drop, you’ll be overwhelmed by a structure where tightly chopped phrases switch at dizzying speed.

Released in March 2013, it later opened the compilation “The Classics,” underscoring its importance in his career.

If you’re looking to boost your mood with energetic dance music, this track is sure to get you hyped.

Run Dancehall ft. Lisa MercedezVybz Kartel95rank/position

Vybz Kartel – Run Dancehall (Official Video) ft. Lisa Mercedez

Vybz Kartel, a reggae musician who is respected by some fans as a legendary figure.

He was arrested for murder in 2014 and received a life sentence, yet he continues to release new tracks from prison and keeps turning out hit songs.

He’s the kind of artist that would be hard to imagine in Japan (lol).

One of his classics is Run Dancehall ft.

Lisa Mercedez.

The track has a classic dancehall vibe, crafted into a hard sound reminiscent of Mighty Jam Rock in Japan.

Under Me Sleng TengWayne Smith96rank/position

Wayne Smith – Under Me Sleng Teng

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.

No Letting GoWayne Wonder97rank/position

Wayne Wonder – No Letting Go

Wayne Wonder, hailing from Jamaica, is known for music that spans multiple genres, and he achieved international success with his 2002 release “No Letting Go.” The song expresses love and gratitude for a cherished partner, featuring a catchy melody and heartfelt lyrics.

Its rhythmic yet gently soothing beat resonates with listeners.

Because it fosters empathy and a sense of connection through music, it’s recommended for expressing appreciation to a lover or someone special.

White SatinZEDS DEAD98rank/position

Zeds Dead – White Satin

Zeds Dead are an electronic duo known for their boundary-crossing sound.

Recognized for their dubstep-rooted musical style, here’s a track that represents their early era.

Released in August 2010, this brostep tune samples The Moody Blues’ classic “Nights in White Satin.” The way it tears apart the original’s melancholic melody with a ferocious bassline and metallic textures, then rebuilds it, is masterful.

Watching the wistful theme be emotionally elevated through an intense drop is a quintessential experience of the genre.

It’s a perfect piece for anyone looking to dive into aggressive yet emotional dance music.