Overseas ska: A roundup of must-know representative bands
SKA is a music genre that emerged in Jamaica in the 1950s and 1960s, said to have been born under the influence of American jazz and R&B, as well as “mento,” a Jamaican folk style.
Even if you know little about ska, you’ve probably heard its beat with the accented 2nd and 4th counts at least once—ska elements are actually woven into a wide variety of genres.
For those who want to start listening to SKA, we’ll introduce a range of iconic international bands across multiple styles—from original ska to 2 Tone, neo-ska, ska punk, and ska-core!
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Overseas ska: A roundup of must-know representative bands (21–30)
Jamaica SkaKeith & Ken with Byron Lee & the Dragonaires
As emblematic acts of Jamaica’s early-1960s music scene, the names Keith & Ken and Byron Lee & the Dragonaires continue to shine.
Celebrated for popularizing ska—born from a fusion of jazz and mento—they left behind a string of legendary performances.
In 1962, they appeared in the James Bond film series, bringing the allure of Jamaican music to audiences worldwide.
In recognition of these achievements, Byron Lee was awarded the Order of Distinction by the Jamaican government in 1982.
A powerhouse band that also backed stars like Harry Belafonte and Chuck Berry, they are known for their lively rhythms and rich harmonies.
They are a top recommendation for anyone wanting to fully savor the appeal of ska and reggae.
Have The TimeThe Slackers
The American ska band The Slackers was formed in New York in 1991.
Blending a variety of genres such as ska, reggae, and soul into a distinctive sound, they continue to captivate fans around the world.
Since releasing their debut album, “Better Late Than Never,” in 1996, they have put out numerous acclaimed records.
In April 2022, they achieved a milestone when their album “Don’t Let The Sunlight Fool Ya” made its debut on the US Billboard charts.
With a career spanning over 30 years, they are often hailed as “the world’s greatest ska band” and remain active on tour, especially across North America and Europe.
Highly recommended for anyone who wants to fully experience the appeal of ska music.
Overseas ska: A roundup of essential representative bands (31–40)
Where’s My Time Stick?Chase Long Beach
Chase Long Beach is a young American ska band produced by the vocalist of Reel Big Fish.
With straightforward lyrics and bright, invigorating melodies, their songs lift your spirits as you listen.
It’s an easy entry point even for those unfamiliar with ska bands.
Monkey BoogieMillencolin
The song “Monkey Boogie” is notable for its very unique keyboard sound.
Millencolin is a ska-punk band from Sweden.
Also known as a “slightly off-time” band, Millencolin is addictive despite the subtle mismatch between their playing and vocals.
Beer SongMustard Plug
Mustard Plug is a ska punk band formed in 1991.
The song is a bit intense, with lyrics about taking and taking until everything is taken.
Even people who don’t know the band can get into it with the “oh-oh-oh” chorus.
They’re a band that tours Japan regularly.
Trailer RasLong Beach Dub Allstars
This is Long Beach Dub Allstars, a large ensemble formed by members of the legendary band SUBLIME, who created the reggae-rock movement that began in the ’90s and continues today.
They might look a bit tough, but they draw from many genres and make them beautifully their own.
I’ll Be Here Awhile311
311’s “I’ll Be Here Awhile” is a ska tune blended with reggae.
What sets 311 apart is their outstanding live performances.
Many people flock to their shows just to witness that performance firsthand.
You could say it’s the lifeline of the band.