The world of rocksteady born in Jamaica — a roundup of must-hear classic tracks to get you started

54-46 That’s My NumberToots & The Maytals

54-46 That’s My Number – Original

This is a song released in 1968 by the Jamaican band Toots and the Maytals.

The lead vocalist, Toots Hibbert, used the prisoner number he was given during his own time in jail as the title, and the lyrics, which vividly capture a soul-deep cry, resonated with many people and became an anthem that represents the history of reggae.

Despite its heavy background, the buoyant bassline and powerful shouts brim with vitality that makes your body instinctively move to the rhythm.

It’s remarkable how the way it blasts away adversity through the power of music can fill you with courage.

Tougher Than ToughDerrick Morgan

Derrick Morgan ‘Tougher Than Tough’ (official audio)

This is a historic track—often said to capture the very moment when the music shifted from ska to rocksteady—released around 1966 by Derrick Morgan, a pioneer of Jamaican music.

Set in a courtroom, it features a unique structure in which Morgan, as the judge, addresses the city’s youth known as the “rude boys.” Their tough way of life and rebellious spirit are sung with power and a touch of humor.

The brisk buoyancy of ska gives way to a more relaxed rhythm and a deep, plunging bassline that seems to herald a new era.

It’s the kind of monumental song in Jamaican music history that makes you think reggae might not have been born without it.

You can feel the cool, unshakable pride of the rude boys shining through.

PerfidiaPhyllis Dillon

Phyllis Dillon – “Perfidia” (Official Audio)

The rocksteady era was also a time when female vocalists thrived.

The slow tempo and love songs suited her clear, expansive voice perfectly, making her one of the leading female vocalists of rocksteady.

Perfidia is her most famous song.

Dancing MoodDelroy Wilson

Delroy Wilson – Dancing Mood

A masterpiece composed by Jackie Mittoo and one of Delroy Wilson’s signature songs.

As the title “Dancing Mood” suggests, it has a laid-back sound that makes your body sway naturally.

He debuted at the age of just 13 and released numerous hits during the ska to rocksteady era.

(you’re) My DesireRita Marley & the Soulettes

Rita Marley and The Soulettes – ( you’re ) My desire

This is a song released in 1971 by the Jamaican female vocal trio Rita Marley & The Soulettes.

In fact, the song was written and composed by none other than Bob Marley, with Rita Marley—who would later become his wife—taking the lead vocals, a backstory that fans find irresistible.

Rita’s dignified yet passionate voice intertwines with the Soulettes’ beautiful harmonies, soaking into the heart over the warm rocksteady rhythm.

The straightforward lyrics proclaiming “You are my desire” captured many listeners and continue to be loved to this day.

It is a gem of a love song that shines in the history of Jamaican music.

Hard Man Fe DeadPrince Buster

Prince Buster – Hard Man Fe Dead

Released in 1966 by Jamaican music pioneer Prince Buster, this track features delightfully bold, humorous lyrics that stick in your head—he sings, “Even if I’m buried in the graveyard, I won’t die.” It’s said to capture the spirit of the rude boys who lived fiercely on the streets at the time.

With bouncy ska rhythms entwined with brassy, swaggering horns, it’s a power-packed tune that makes your body move before you know it.

Prince Buster’s talk-like vocal delivery is often cited as a forerunner of rap.

This tough yet cheerful sound is sure to lift your spirits!

Take It EasyHopeton Lewis

Hopeton Lewis – Take It Easy

Take It Easy, performed by guitarist Lynn Taitt—often credited with shifting the sound from ska to rocksteady—and his band, The Jets.

It’s said that Hopeton Lewis couldn’t sing at the brisk ska tempo, so they slowed the rhythm down, giving birth to this track.

This song is often cited as the origin of rocksteady, and there’s no doubt it’s a classic you should listen to first.