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 Classics for Reggae Beginners (91–100)

You Don’t Love Me (No, No, No)Dawn Penn

Dawn Penn – No, No No (Official Video)

You Don't Love Me (No, No, No)Dawn Penn

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.

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No One Like GodElephant man

Elephant Man – No One Like God

No One Like GodElephant man

He is one of the leading artists in the dancehall scene, which enjoys overwhelming popularity in Japan.

There are various theories about the origin of his stage name “Elephant Man,” such as that it was because he had a large nose or large ears.

His distinctive vocal style—instantly recognizable when you hear him—and his high-energy, bounding stage performances are his trademarks.

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LiquidationErnest Ranglin

Ernest Ranglin – Liquidation

LiquidationErnest Ranglin

Ernest Ranglin, a Jamaican guitarist of national-treasure caliber—known as Ernie.

There’s no question he’s indispensable to early Jamaican music.

He’s also known for supporting Jimmy Cliff on tour.

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Mr. IsaacsGREGORY ISAACS

Gregory Isaacs – Mr. Isaacs (Álbum Completo)

Mr. IsaacsGREGORY ISAACS

Like Bob Marley, Gregory Isaacs has fans all over the world, yet for some reason he never left any recordings with Studio One, the prestigious label that Jamaica is proud of.

Was there some reason for that? He was a talented singer in his own right, and also an accomplished producer.

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Slave QueenJudy Mowatt

Judy Mowatt Slave Queen

Slave QueenJudy Mowatt

Among the I-Threes, the most beautiful? Judy Mowatt.

Her style isn’t confined to reggae, and her singing voice has a clear, transparent quality that I think is easy to listen to even if you’re not a reggae fan.

She also sings R&B-style tracks, making her an artist who isn’t bound by genre.

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Why Must I CryPeter Tosh

WHY MUST I CRY

Why Must I CryPeter Tosh

A gem of a ballad that delves into the depths of love and heartache, featured on Peter Tosh’s debut album “Legalize It.” Upon its 1976 release, the song captured the hearts of reggae fans.

Its lyrics lay bare the pain of heartbreak and the feeling of loneliness, perfectly matched by Tosh’s soulful vocals.

Many listeners will see themselves in the protagonist, wounded by love and vowing never to fall in love again.

This work fully showcases the emotional richness that reggae music can convey.

It’s a song highly recommended for those seeking to heal from the pain of a breakup or to experience authentic reggae that truly resonates.

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Fighting For LoveRyan Hiraoka

Ryan Hiraoka – Fighting For Love – Music Video

Fighting For LoveRyan Hiraoka

Ryan Hiraoka, a top producer and singer from the Big Island of Hawaii.

Set to a Hawaiian reggae rhythm, his relaxed love song, delivered in his sweet voice, is a track you can enjoy while driving or in a variety of other situations.

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