Popular Reggae: Western Music Artist Rankings [2025]

WarBob Marley29rank/position

War / No More Trouble (Live At The Rainbow Theatre, London / 1977)

Bob Marley, the god of reggae.

He wasn’t just an artist; he appealed for peace by getting the leaders of Jamaica’s ruling and opposition parties—who were locked in violent conflict—to shake hands.

Unfortunately, the strife did not come to an end, but his achievements continue to influence many artists today.

His song “War” is one of his signature tracks.

Centered on themes of peace and anti-war, this love-and-peace anthem has surely soothed the hearts of many.

Buffalo SoldierBob Marley & The Wailers30rank/position

Bob Marley & The Wailers – Buffalo Soldier (Official Music Video)

This song appears on the album Confrontation, released in 1983 by the legendary Jamaican band Bob Marley & The Wailers.

Centered on the African American cavalry regiments who fought in the American Indian Wars in the late 19th century, it portrays the forced displacement from Africa and a longing for freedom.

It features reggae’s signature, soothing rhythm and Marley’s powerful vocals.

Earning platinum certification in the UK with over 600,000 copies sold, it received high acclaim worldwide.

As a symbol of the struggle and hope of all who resist oppression, it continues to resonate with many people today.

Decisions (feat. Miley Cyrus)Borgore31rank/position

“Decisions” – Borgore feat. Miley Cyrus (Official Music Video)

The Israeli music producer Borgore is a distinctive figure in the scene, with a wide-ranging musical background spanning from jazz to death metal.

Among his works, an essential track for understanding brostep is the one featuring Miley Cyrus, also included on the album #NEWGOREORDER.

The song explores the theme of people’s desire for wealth and success, weaving together an aggressive sound driven by pounding sub-bass and vocals that carry a faint sense of melancholy.

In December 2012, they even performed together live in Los Angeles, which generated significant buzz at the time.

With its structure that balances the intense drops characteristic of brostep and a melodious development, it’s an accessible entry point for newcomers to the genre.

Boom wah disBurro Banton32rank/position

Burro Banton – Boom wah dis

This is Burro Banton, a veteran dancehall deejay known for his distinctive gravelly voice.

It’s an intensely powerful track that hits hard with fierce sound and riddim.

At dancehall events, when this song plays, the crowd goes wild—it’s a classic anthem.

Eastern JamChase & Status33rank/position

Chase and Status – Eastern Jam

Chase & Status, formed in 2003 by Milton Chase and Will Kennard, is a British drum and bass production duo.

This track is included on the collaborative single “Pieces,” released in 2008.

You Don’t Love Me (No, No, No)Dawn Penn34rank/position

Dawn Penn – No, No No (Official Video)

Dawn Penn, a reggae singer from Kingston, Jamaica.

She began her career in the rocksteady era of the 1960s, and in 1994 she returned to the spotlight with the smash hit “You Don’t Love Me (No, No, No).” Dawn Penn’s heartfelt lyrics and distinctive vocal style have won the love of fans around the world.

The song portrays the feelings of a woman who senses that her partner’s heart isn’t with her, and its appeal lies in its sincere lyrics and catchy rhythm.

The laid-back reggae groove is perfect for unwinding and escaping the bustle of everyday life.

It’s a track that lets you fully experience the charm of reggae.

IsraelitesDesmond Dekker & The Aces35rank/position

Desmond Dekker & The Aces – Israelites (Official Lyrics Video)

This is a song released in 1968 by the pioneering Jamaican group Desmond Dekker & The Aces, who set dazzling records with the first Jamaican music to achieve a global million-seller and reach No.

1 on the UK charts.

Its pleasant offbeat rhythm and bouncy bassline make your body groove almost involuntarily as you listen! In contrast to its cheerful tone, the lyrics vividly portray the poverty many people faced at the time.

This gap between brightness and poignancy pierces the listener’s heart.

Savor the depth of this history-making classic!