In When Rock Met Reggae, Steven Blush takes a spirited, cross-genre perspective in this "illuminating chronicle" (Booklist) of the crossover of Jamaican, British, and American sounds that changed the face of popular music. Library Journal notes that "Blush’s nimble outline of the interplay between reggae and British punk will appeal to music fans.” Bringing the same incisive, cross-genre perspective he offered in When Rock Met Disco, Steven Blush gives a spirited survey of the crossover of Jamaican, British, and American sounds that changed the face of popular music in When Rock Met Reggae. The inspiration of ska, rock-steady, dub, and reggae—heard on independent recordings played on “soundsystems” from Kingston and Brixton—created a new rock tonality and attitude, spanning from Eric Clapton to The Clash. Meanwhile, the “Two Tone” sounds—traversing The Specials, Madness, and UB40—fueled the ‘90s ska revival of Sublime, No Doubt, The Mighty Mighty Bosstones, and beyond. Attentive to the racial, political, and artistic aspects of this intricate story, Blush gives a memorable account of one of the most fertile cross-pollinations in pop music history.

Told in the voices of reggae's major participants, these authoritative accounts chart the history, characteristics, and broad appeal of the music that originated in Jamaica, but has spread like wildfire throughout the world over the years to rise up in Africa and South America as well as England and America.

A history of Jamaica's contribution to world culture--reggae--traces the history of the form from African rhythms to the slums of Kingston and the international recording industry.

Provides a complete historic overview of the sounds of the entire English-speaking Caribbean region, bringing together informative essays on the development of a range of music styles and the industry's top performers. Original.

Jamaican music can be roughly divided into four eras, each with a distinctive beat - ska, rocksteady, reggae and dancehall. Ska dates from about 1960 to mid-1966, rocksteady from 1966 to 1968, while from 1969 to 1983 reggae was the popular beat. The reggae era had two phases, 'early reggae' up to 1974 and 'roots reggae' up to 1983. Since 1983 dancehall has been the prevalent sound. The authors describe each stage in the development of the music, identifying the most popular songs and artists, highlighting the significant social, political and economic issues as they affected the musical scene. While they write from a Jamaican perspective, the intended audience is 'any person, local or foreign, interested in an intelligent discussion of reggae music and Jamaica.'.

Robert Nesta Marley, OM, born on February 6, 1945, and transcending into eternity on May 11, 1981, was more than a mere musician; he was a luminary figure who indelibly shaped the landscape of Jamaican music. Renowned as a singer, songwriter, and musician, Marley's artistic journey was an exquisite fusion of reggae, ska, and rocksteady, underscored by his distinctive voice and unique compositional style. Heralded as a pioneer of reggae, his musical tapestry unfolded like a rhythmic masterpiece, leaving an indelible mark on the global cultural landscape. Bob Marley's artistic odyssey traversed the realms of creativity, bringing Jamaican music to the forefront of the world's sonic palette. Even beyond his mortal existence, his cultural influence persists as a testament to the power of his craft. Marley's commitment to Rastafari infused a spiritual essence into his music, elevating it beyond the mere realm of entertainment to a spiritual experience for many. Beyond the musical realm, Marley emerged as a symbol of Jamaican identity, culture, and a vocal advocate for democratic social reforms. His unwavering support for these ideals did not come without its share of controversies, as evidenced by a politically motivated assassination attempt on his home in 1976. Undeterred, Marley continued to champion causes close to his heart, advocating not only for the legalization of marijuana but also embodying the principles of Pan-Africanism.