Recommended reggae

Masterpieces, fan favorites, and new 21st-century staples for reggae beginners

Former vocal coach specializing in Western musicRyo
Under the theme of “vocal skills that stand up on the world stage,” I have experience teaching as an online vocal coach specializing in Western music, and I usually listen to genres like nuevo flamenco, bolero, canzone, and R&B. In my teens, I questioned the idea that “foreign music equals English,” and started exploring songs from around the world. My commentary is characterized by a unique perspective shaped by listening to music of every genre, in every language, from every country. I mainly cover world music, so be sure to check it out!
Editor-in-Chief, RAG MUSICKeisuke Hane
Editor-in-chief of RAG MUSIC. After working at a music studio and in wedding sound engineering, joined the RAG MUSIC editorial team in 2016. Experienced with various instruments: marching band in elementary school, clarinet in middle school wind ensemble, and drums in a band from high school onward. Drawing on personal music activities and professional experience, produces daily articles, including song introductions, features on music festivals around Japan, and live reports. Enjoys a wide range of music, from domestic and international rock to, more recently, a broad spectrum of J-pop.

Reggae, the laid-back music born in Jamaica.

Its comfortable rhythms and liberating melodies are loved around the world and are now actively incorporated into pop and other genres.

In this article, we’ve carefully selected classic and popular reggae tracks, including new 21st-century standards!

We’ve chosen a wide range of songs, from dancehall reggae and dub to raggamuffin, rocksteady, and even lovers rock.

We’ve also included many tracks by artists considered classics and legends, so if you’re new to reggae, start by listening to the songs introduced here!

Masterpieces, Popular Tracks, and New 21st-Century Standards for Reggae Beginners (81–90)

The SongBeres Hammond

Beres Hammond – The Song [Nov 2012] [VP Records]

The SongBeres Hammond

A venerable figure in the lovers’ reggae scene who sings gently with a husky voice.

He blends soul and R&B seamlessly into reggae and delivers heartfelt performances.

His music goes beyond the boundaries of reggae, making it easy for anyone to listen to—even beginners will find it accessible.

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Walk Away From LoveBitty Mclean

Bitty McLean – Walk Away From Love..

Walk Away From LoveBitty Mclean

He is also known as the prince of the UK reggae scene.

Setting himself apart from the raggamuffin style prevalent in today’s dancehall, he has gained popularity with a smooth, traditional vocal style.

This song is a cover of a hit from the solo era of David Ruffin, who was the lead vocalist of the Motown group The Temptations.

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Stir It Up ft. SarkodieBob Marley & The Wailers, Sarkodie

Bob Marley & The Wailers, Sarkodie – Stir It Up ft. Sarkodie

Stir It Up ft. SarkodieBob Marley & The Wailers, Sarkodie

This is a soul-stirring track that fuses Jamaican and Ghanaian music.

A laid-back reggae rhythm is layered with Sarkodie’s powerful rap, creating a new form of sound.

The lyrics, themed around love and passion, resonate deeply with listeners.

Released in February 2023, the song brings the spirit of Bob Marley into the present day.

The music video was filmed in Ghana, beautifully portraying the bond between Africa and the Caribbean.

It’s perfect for relaxing or spending time with someone special.

This piece is a great pick for anyone who wants to enjoy music across generations.

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Joy rideByron Lee & The Dragonaires

BYRON LEE AND THE DRAGONAIRES JOY RIDE LP BRA

Joy rideByron Lee & The Dragonaires

When it comes to the indispensable musical influences on early Jamaican music, calypso and jazz come to mind.

In particular, Byron Lee and the Dragonaires had a strong calypso flavor, making them a distinctive presence compared to other Jamaican bands.

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HolidayCollie Buddz

Collie Buddz – Holiday (Official Music Video)

HolidayCollie Buddz

Born in New Orleans and raised in Bermuda, Collie Buddz encountered reggae culture at a young age.

Honing his skills in sound clashes since his student days, he is now a rare artist who can do it all by himself—from songwriting to building riddims.

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Two Sevens ClashCulture

Two Sevens Clash

Two Sevens ClashCulture

Culture is a three-member Jamaican roots rock reggae band formed in 1976.

This is the title track from their debut album, Two Sevens Clash, released the following year and later hailed as a classic.

They initially performed under the name African Disciples, but a bold change in direction led them to shift the group’s course.

Among the scene’s standout tracks, it was even nominated for Jamaica’s Best Album award.

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Masterpieces, Popular Tracks, and New 21st-Century Classics for Reggae Beginners (91–100)

Always On My MindDa’ville feat. Sean Paul

Da’Ville – Always on My Mind ft. Da’Ville

Always On My MindDa'ville feat. Sean Paul

Originally, he debuted as the lead singer of ARP, a five-member vocal group, and is a vocalist with a remarkable voice who skillfully handles covers as well.

This track is Daville’s solo song featuring none other than the famed reggae singer Sean Paul.

Daville elegantly delivers, at a medium tempo, the feelings of a man who can’t stop thinking about the woman who left him, and Sean Paul’s entrance adds just the right touch.

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