What Is the Music of Jamaica?

Jamaica is an island in the North Caribbean that is a common tourist destination. Jamaican music has become popular in many different countries, including the United States, the United Kingdom and Africa.

Reggae

Reggae music was created in Jamaica in 1969. It is characterized by chanting (by the singer), African-inspired drum beats and an intense bass sound.

History

Reggae has its roots in a musical form called "mento." It is a fast-paced, folk music style that uses violins and guitars. There is an emphasis on the fourth beat (in a sequence of four beats). The singer touches on various topics that are important to Jamaicans.

Beat

Unlike other Western music styles, such as pop music where the bass sound "drops" on the first and third beat, in reggae music it drops on the second and fourth beat.

Ska

Ska music is similar to reggae and also was created in Jamaica. It was influenced by American R&B and jazz music, and then in turn influenced the creation of modern-day reggae music.

Types

Dub, dancehall and jungle music are all forms of Jamaican reggae. These are all fast-paced, exciting variations of the genre that are commonly heard in clubs and at Jamaican festivals.

References

• Pan American Health Organization; Jamaica
• Jamaican Music Styles
• Ska History; Tracing Ska Music's History

Resources

• Example of Mento Music Band
• Popular Reggae Artist