Music is one of the most important aspects of any culture, and music is often at the heart of many countries’ identities. Jamaica, in particular, has given the world reggae music that has influenced music for generations-from pop music to hip hop. Considering how many different genres there are and have been, as well as how many musicians exist around the world – it is an exception how this rather small country made such an enormous influence on the world with its reggae.
There are many explanations for this, starting from the very charismatic musicians that produced it, to the mundane things, like some parts of Jamaican culture being very adaptable and interesting to other people. If you’re interested to learn more about this phenomenon – read on.
The Origins of Reggae music
Music has always been an important part of Jamaican culture. This is evident because music has influenced many aspects of Jamaican society, from their language to even the country’s national symbols. One genre that has shaped music around the world is reggae music. Originating in the 1960s, this type of music combines elements from rhythm and blues, mentor ska, rocksteady, American jazz music, and calypso music to create a unique sound that would have a global influence on pop culture. Bob Marley was one artist who put Jamaica’s stamp on music with his famous reggae songs such as “No Woman No Cry,” “Jammin'” and “One Love.”
This man, in particular, is the most famous reggae music artist of all time. He has many hits under his belt, including “Buffalo Soldier,” “Get Up, Stand Up” and “Exodus.” Besides music, Bob Marley was known for advocating the rights of people of other races and socioeconomic statuses, and there are also some very famous Bob Marley quotes. Considered one of the best music artists to ever live (he won 13 Grammys), Bob Marley was not only recognized for his music but also the message behind his music. He advocated hope, peace, love, and unity in music through his songs.
Defining the Style
Even if you are not a music fan, there are many chances that you have heard reggae music. Popular music has been influenced by this music genre in various ways. Some of the biggest music artists that owe their success to reggae music include Bruno Mars, Madonna, Beyonce, The Beatles, and even Justin Bieber. This is because reggae music combines different musical elements from pop music with its unique characteristics to create a sound that many people can appreciate. However, when listening to popular songs today or other genres under the umbrella of reggae, it is quite difficult to identify which song was influenced by Bob Marley’s style of music compared to contemporary artists who are inspired by his style of music.
Reggae music is a music genre that is easier to enjoy if you know what you are listening for. However, there is no denying that music has been influenced by this style of music around the world. One example of how reggae music influenced pop culture can be seen in music videos from modern artists such as Rihanna and Justin Bieber who have adopted many visual aspects from Bob Marley’s famous music video “Buffalo Soldier.”
The music video for “Buffalo Soldier” was considered groundbreaking at the time because it was filmed in a desert with many black people. Besides song lyrics, music videos play a big role in popular culture today and reggae music has played a hand in its development over the years.
Why the Media Loves It
What music artists take from reggae music, the media also benefits. Reggae music is often used in movies and television shows because it creates an atmosphere that fits the scenery perfectly. Songs written in this style are used to make moments in music videos more impactful because they can convey messages through music better than other genres. Because of this, many modern songs do not even need lyrics to make a deep connection with listeners as long as they use an instrumental version of a song- such as “Black or White” by Michael Jackson and “Lose Yourself” by Eminem.
For example, hip-hop music has been influenced by reggae music over the years and some people may not realize it they hear both sounds side by side. Reggae music has made music videos more popular in modern media today, but music genres have also used this style of music to create music productions that are easily recognizable by their reggae influence. Not only is the music enjoyable, but reggae music makes for fantastic production music thanks to its relaxing nature and ability to convey powerful emotions without lyrics. This makes it perfect for many different types of media that need background music because it can be customized at will according to individual needs.
Examples from Pop-Culture
Music videos are just one of the many ways music genres have been influenced by reggae music. R&B music is another music genre that has benefited from reggae music thanks to popular artists such as Rihanna, Beyonce, and Drake. Many modern singers include some form of reggae music in their songs because it provides more character than other music genres which leads to more diverse hits.
Many rappers also adapt this style of music into their music because they know it works well with hip-hop beats. If you like rap or hip-hop music today, chances are you can find at least one song that features some sort of Jamaican influence whether it be explicit or subtle. Even Justin Bieber used a little bit of Jamaican flavor in his music video for “Sorry” which features many aspects of Jamaican culture.
When it comes to music, there is virtually no end to the genres that have been influenced by reggae music since its inception in the 1960s. No matter if a music artist raps, sings, or produces music videos for a music video, there is a good chance you can find some aspect of this music genre in their music. Reggae music has left an indelible mark on modern music and it will continue to influence future music artists as they emulate the best reggae songs from this rich source.
Reggae music has had a significant impact on modern music. It’s the music of Jamaica, but it is loved and recognized around the world. If you’re looking for some new music to listen to or want your party playlist updated with an authentic Jamaican vibe, give these great reggae artists a try!
