Western Reggae Popularity Rankings [2025]

Jamaican In New YorkShinehead8rank/position

Jamaican In New York

An American reggae artist originally from the UK, he was among those who most influenced the Jamaican scene throughout the 1980s and 1990s.

He established an original style that fused dancehall with R&B and hip-hop.

This song is a cover that reimagines Sting’s classic “Englishman in New York” as a Jamaican.

Murder She WroteChaka Demus & Pliers9rank/position

Chaka Demus, Pliers – Murder She Wrote

Released in 1992 by the Jamaican reggae duo Chaka Demus & Pliers, “Murder She Wrote” is an iconic reggae track.

The song seamlessly blends lively dancehall rhythms with a distinctive pop sensibility, showcasing the breadth of their musical style.

The lyrics focus on a woman named Maxine, whose moral issues contrast with her outward attractiveness, depicting her behavior through metaphor.

It’s especially recommended for those who want to enjoy the feel of a classic reggae beat.

Sweat (A La La Long)Inner Circle10rank/position

Inner Circle – Sweat (A La La Long)

Inner Circle is a legendary reggae band that originated in Jamaica and rose to global fame.

Their signature song, “Sweat (A La La Long),” has been lighting up charts around the world since its release in 1992.

The track is characterized by a catchy, rhythmic melody centered on the theme of love for a special woman.

What’s more, the upbeat intro has a unique charm that makes your heart start dancing the moment you hear it.

It’s perfect for laid-back moments and carries an encouraging message.

Why not step into the world of reggae that Inner Circle showcases, starting with this song?

She’s RoyalTarrus Riley11rank/position

Tarrus Riley – She’s Royal | Official Music Video

Tarrus Riley is a reggae artist from Jamaica, also known for being the son of Jimmy Riley.

In 2006, he released the song “She’s Royal,” which became a major hit.

The song praises the beauty and strength of the woman he admires, capturing the hearts of many listeners.

Its melody and positive message continue to resonate in modern society, and it boasts over 100 million streams.

With its laid-back tempo and offbeat rhythm, it’s a track packed with classic reggae vibes.

I can see clearly nowJimmy Cliff12rank/position

Jimmy Cliff – I Can See Clearly Now (Video Version)

Jimmy Cliff is a reggae singer from Jamaica.

He began his musical career before reggae was established as a genre, and in 1972 he starred in the film The Harder They Come, bringing Jamaica’s situation at the time to the world’s attention.

He also contributed to the soundtrack album, which catapulted him to fame.

This song was used as the theme for the film Cool Runnings and in commercials for Japanese companies.

Let’s Do It AgainJ Boog13rank/position

J Boog – Let’s Do It Again (Official Video)

J Boog is a reggae singer from the United States and is also one of the leading figures in Hawaii’s reggae scene.

His songs are mostly island reggae, so I think people who like surf music will find them easy to enjoy.

This track is one version over the “Major Riddim,” so I also recommend checking out songs by other artists on the same riddim.

(I Can’t Help) Falling In Love With YouUB4014rank/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.