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 Songs, and New Classics of the 21st Century for Reggae Beginners (21–30)

No Letting GoWayne Wonder

Wayne Wonder – No Letting Go

No Letting GoWayne Wonder

Wayne Wonder, hailing from Jamaica, is known for music that spans multiple genres, and he achieved international success with his 2002 release “No Letting Go.” The song expresses love and gratitude for a cherished partner, featuring a catchy melody and heartfelt lyrics.

Its rhythmic yet gently soothing beat resonates with listeners.

Because it fosters empathy and a sense of connection through music, it’s recommended for expressing appreciation to a lover or someone special.

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Turn Me OnKevin Lyttle

Kevin Lyttle – Turn Me On [HD]

Turn Me OnKevin Lyttle

A soca singer from Saint Vincent and the Grenadines in the Caribbean.

This debut single became a worldwide hit and catapulted them to fame.

Although they sing with a refreshing smile and smooth falsetto, the lyrics are actually quite on the erotic side.

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King Tubby Meets Rockers UptownKing Tubby

King Tubby Meets Rockers Uptown

King Tubby Meets Rockers UptownKing Tubby

Wrapped in the magic of sound, set yourself free from the everyday! This track is perfect for you.

Hailing from Jamaica, King Tubby was an innovator who elevated mixing techniques into an art form.

What you’ll hear here is a fantastical sonic world where Augustus Pablo’s airy, floating melodica melodies intertwine with a deeply resonant bassline.

The way the mixing console is played like an instrument, dropping elements in and out, is truly breathtaking.

This is the title track from the classic 1976 album “King Tubbys Meets Rockers Uptown,” which is also known for being featured in the game Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas, sparking a renewed appreciation.

Dim the lights a bit and let yourself be carried away by this richly layered soundscape.

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Save The WorldPeetah Morgan

Peetah Morgan – Save the World

Save The WorldPeetah Morgan

Peter Morgan, the lead vocalist of the family-based vocal group Morgan Heritage.

Set against a relaxed acoustic sound and beautiful melodies, his wonderfully clear, pure voice resonates throughout.

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(I Can’t Help) Falling In Love With YouUB40

UB40 – (I Can’t Help) Falling In Love With You (Remastered 2002)

(I Can't Help) Falling In Love With YouUB40

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.

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My Life So HappyBeenie Man

Beenie Man – My Life So Happy [Official Music Video HD]

My Life So HappyBeenie Man

He is a DJ who led Jamaica’s dancehall reggae and is also a singer.

He’s known by nicknames like “Doctor” and “King of Dancehall.” This track is a relatively new number, with cheerful lyrics delivered over a lively programmed beat.

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Just Dance Wacky DipDing Dong feat. Voicemail

Ding Dong feat. Voicemail – Just Dance Wacky Dip

Just Dance Wacky DipDing Dong feat. Voicemail

Voice Mail is a three-member dancehall unit.

They enjoy overwhelming support in the dance scene, and the R&B-style harmonies sung by the trio are said to have a distinctive flair.

Their single featuring the legendary dancer known as Mr.

Wacky became a massive hit, propelling them to stardom.

This song is the single released afterward that features a new dancer and serves as a tribute to Mr.

Wacky.

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