WHAT ARE THE 10 TYPES OF REGGAE MUSIC?

Diving Deep into Reggae’s Rich Tapestry: A Guide to 10 Distinct Subgenres

Born in Jamaica in the late 1960s, reggae music has resonated across continents, making its mark in every corner of the globe. From the soul-stirring rhythms to its socially conscious lyrics, reggae has never been just about the music, but a movement. As the genre has spread and evolved, various subgenres have emerged, reflecting diverse cultural influences and artistic innovations. Let’s embark on a musical journey, exploring 10 of reggae’s most distinctive subgenres.

1. Dub Reggae

Dub Reggae is a subgenre of reggae music that emerged in the late 1960s in Jamaica. Unlike traditional reggae which may center around melodies and vocals, Dub is predominantly about rhythm and the manipulation of sounds. Here’s a more detailed breakdown:

Origin:

• Dub Reggae traces its roots back to the late 1960s in Jamaica. It began as a reinterpretation and deconstruction of existing reggae tracks. Producers would strip down tracks, removing certain parts, and emphasizing others to create a unique soundscape.

Characteristics:

• Dominated by Rhythm: In Dub, the rhythm section, consisting of bass and drums, plays a central role. These components are brought to the forefront, creating a powerful and pulsating beat.
• Heavy Use of Effects: Dub is well-known for its extensive use of audio effects. Some of the most common effects include:
  • Delay: This effect repeats sounds at varying intervals, creating an echoing sensation.
  • Echo: Similar to delay, but typically refers to a single repetition of a sound. In Dub, it’s often applied to snare hits or rimshots.
  • Reverb: Adds depth and space to sounds, making them seem as if they are emanating from a larger space, like a hall or a canyon.
  • Phasing: This effect creates a sweeping, whooshing sound by altering the phase of the audio signal.

• Often Lacks Vocals: Unlike traditional reggae, Dub tracks often minimize or entirely omit vocals. When vocals are present, they might be fragmented, echoed, or manipulated in various ways to serve more as an instrument than a primary narrative.

Pioneers:

• Lee “Scratch” Perry: One of the most iconic figures in the world of Dub and reggae, Lee Perry is known for his innovative production techniques and unique soundscapes. His work at the Black Ark studio in the 1970s has been influential, laying the groundwork for many artists that followed.
• King Tubby: Another seminal figure in the Dub world, King Tubby was a sound engineer and producer who is often credited with creating the Dub sound. He made extensive use of sound system customizations and innovative mixing techniques to craft his distinctive Dub remixes.

In essence, Dub Reggae is a sonic exploration, delving deep into the possibilities of sound manipulation and production techniques. It’s a genre that has influenced not just reggae, but also electronic music, hip-hop, and many other genres across the globe.

2. Dancehall

Dancehall is a vibrant and influential genre of music that grew out of Jamaica’s rich tapestry of musical traditions. Below is an expanded description based on the provided points:

Origin:

Dancehall emerged in the 1960s from the street dances in Jamaica. While reggae music, with its laid-back and roots-oriented sound, was gaining international recognition, the local music scene was brewing with a more uptempo and raw vibe. This new sound was primarily driven by the sound systems – portable discotheques – that played in various dance venues across Jamaica’s towns and cities. The term “dancehall” itself refers to these venues where DJs would spin records, and toasters (early rappers) would hype up the crowd with vocal interjections.

Characteristics:

• Fast Rhythm: Dancehall music is characterized by a faster and more aggressive rhythm than traditional reggae. This beat, often referred to as “riddim,” serves as the backbone for dancehall tracks, compelling listeners to move to its energetic pulse.
• Use of Jamaican Patois: While reggae also features Jamaican Patois, dancehall often employs a more streetwise and localized version of the dialect. The lyrics in Dancehall are direct, raw, and often address socio-political issues, love, and the party scene.
• Dance-Centric: As the name suggests, dance is integral to the dancehall experience. Over the years, dancehall has given birth to numerous dance moves that become trends both within and outside Jamaica. Dance crews and individual dancers often craft and showcase their choreography at dancehall parties, and some moves become internationally recognized.

In summary, dancehall is more than just a genre of music; it’s a cultural phenomenon. It encapsulates a way of life, reflecting the joys, struggles, and soul of the Jamaican people. While it has its roots in the 1960s, the genre has evolved over the decades, influencing and being influenced by other music genres like hip-hop and reggaeton. Dancehall continues to be a dominant force in the global music scene, with numerous artists, both from Jamaica and elsewhere, drawing inspiration from its infectious energy.

3. Reggaeton

Reggaeton is a musical genre that has taken the world by storm, offering a fusion of sounds from the Caribbean and Latin America. Here’s a deeper exploration based on the provided points:

Origin:

Reggaeton finds its roots in the late 1980s in Latin America and the Caribbean, specifically in countries like Puerto Rico and Panama. The genre began as an adaptation and evolution of Jamaican dancehall, which had made its way to these regions. As local artists began to integrate dancehall’s rhythm with their own musical influences, a unique sound started to form, which would eventually be identified as reggaeton.

Characteristics:

• The blend of Various Musical Traditions:
  • Jamaican Dancehall: The foundational rhythm of reggaeton, referred to as “Dem Bow”, is derived from dancehall music. This beat provides the pulsating and unmistakable backdrop to most reggaeton tracks.
  • Latin American Salsa and Bomba: Elements of salsa, with its intricate melodies and passionate vocal deliveries, as well as bomba, a traditional Puerto Rican drum-driven music and dance style, can be heard in many reggaeton songs, adding depth and diversity to the genre.
  • Electronica: As the genre evolved, especially in the late 1990s and early 2000s, electronic sounds and production techniques became integral. Synthesizers, electronic beats, and auto-tuned vocals are commonly used in modern reggaeton.

• Lyrically Similar to Hip-Hop: Thematically, reggaeton often mirrors hip-hop in its content. Lyrics often touch upon street life, love, desire, and boastfulness. Social commentary, challenges of urban life, and party anthems are all standard fare in reggaeton songs. Additionally, the art of storytelling, often laced with metaphor and wordplay, draws a parallel to hip-hop.

In essence, reggaeton is the product of cultural fusion, a testament to the power of music as a universal language that transcends borders. What started as a localized sound in the streets and clubs of Puerto Rico and Panama, among other places, has now become a global sensation, with artists like Daddy Yankee, Don Omar, and Bad Bunny leading the charge and bringing reggaeton to international audiences.

4. Raggamuffin (Ragga)

Raggamuffin, commonly referred to as Ragga, is a subgenre of dancehall music and is known for its digital sound and incorporation of electronic elements. Here’s a more detailed exploration based on the given points:

Origin:

Raggamuffin’s emergence can be traced back to the 1980s in Jamaica. As the technology to produce music became more accessible and affordable, artists began to experiment with digital sounds, moving away from the traditional live instruments that dominated earlier reggae and dancehall music.

Characteristics:

• Electronic: One of the defining features of Ragga is its reliance on electronic instrumentation. Instead of live drumming and bass guitar rhythms, drum machines and synthesizers took center stage.
• Sampling-Focused: Sampling, the act of taking a portion of one sound recording and reusing it in another recording, became a staple in Ragga. This allowed producers to draw from a vast array of sounds, melding together different eras and genres of music. It was common to hear fragments of classic reggae tracks layered over fresh digital beats.
• Merges with Hip-Hop Elements: The lines between Ragga and hip-hop often blur, with many Ragga tracks incorporating the beats, rhythms, and even rapping styles found in hip-hop. This fusion can be attributed to the widespread influence of hip-hop culture in the 1980s and its resonance with Jamaican artists. Over time, many collaborations occurred between Jamaican and international artists, further intertwining the genres.

In summary, Raggamuffin represents a digital evolution of reggae and dancehall, embracing new technologies and sounds while still honoring its roots. The genre also exemplifies the fluid nature of music, showcasing how traditional forms can adapt and merge with contemporary influences to create something entirely fresh.

5. Reggae Fusion

Reggae Fusion is an eclectic subgenre that marries the rhythmic and melodic elements of reggae with various other musical genres, resulting in a diverse array of sounds and styles. Here’s a more in-depth look based on the points provided:

Origin:

The inception of Reggae Fusion can be situated in the late 1970s to early 1980s. As reggae gained international fame, thanks in part to artists like Bob Marley, musicians from different backgrounds began experimenting with its elements, leading to the birth of this fusion genre.

Characteristics:

• Versatility in Fusion: The beauty of Reggae Fusion lies in its ability to seamlessly integrate with a myriad of genres. Depending on the collaborating genre, the resulting music can vary vastly in tempo, tone, and instrumentation, but it typically maintains the recognizable rhythmic base of reggae.
  • Hip-Hop: When reggae is blended with hip-hop, it often produces tracks with reggae-styled rhythms underpinning rapped verses. Artists like Shabba Ranks and Shinehead have dabbled in this fusion.
  • Jazz: Jazz-infused reggae brings forth complex harmonies and improvisational elements, creating a laid-back, groovy sound.
  • Funk: Merging with funk, reggae benefits from bass-heavy grooves and a punchier rhythm.
  • Pop: Pop influences can make reggae more accessible to mainstream audiences. The melodies become catchier, and the structure might follow the verse-chorus format more closely. Artists like UB40 and MAGIC! have seen international success with this blend.
  • Rock: Reggae-rock fusions might feature amplified instruments and powerful vocals while still maintaining a reggae beat. Bands like Sublime are known for this style.
  • Drum and Bass: The high-tempo, breakbeat rhythms of drum and bass can be layered with reggae’s laid-back vibe, creating an energetic yet smooth sound.

In conclusion, Reggae Fusion showcases the adaptability and global appeal of reggae. By blending with various genres, it has continually reinvented itself, catering to diverse audiences and ensuring its relevance in the ever-evolving music landscape. The genre stands as a testament to music’s boundless potential for innovation and collaboration.

6. Lovers Rock

Lovers Rock, a unique subgenre of reggae, offers a more sentimental and tender side of the music, standing in contrast to the more politically charged and roots-oriented forms of reggae. Here’s an extended description based on the provided points:

Origin:

Lovers Rock originated in the mid-1970s in London, primarily within the city’s Afro-Caribbean communities. The UK, having a significant Caribbean diaspora, was ripe for innovations in reggae music. Lovers Rock became the British answer to the roots of reggae emanating from Jamaica, addressing a different emotional spectrum.

Characteristics:

• Romantic: As the name suggests, Lovers Rock revolves around themes of love, passion, heartbreak, and romance. The lyrics are tender, the melodies sweet, and the overall vibe is soothing and intimate. It provides a space for emotions that might be overshadowed in the more hardcore forms of reggae.
• Base for R&B, Hip-Hop, and Pop Tracks: Due to its romantic nature and smooth melodies, Lovers Rock has been sampled or served as an inspiration for artists in R&B, hip-hop, and pop. The sultry rhythms and emotive lyrics make it a perfect fit for love songs across genres.
• Antithesis of Rastafarian Reggae: While traditional Rastafarian reggae (often termed as “roots reggae”) is heavily focused on socio-political issues, spirituality, and the back-to-Africa movement, Lovers Rock takes a step back from these themes. Instead, it delves into personal and romantic narratives, making it quite distinct in its priorities and message.

In essence, Lovers Rock can be viewed as the romantic ballad counterpart in the reggae world. It provides a softer, more emotive side to the genre and showcases its versatility. Artists like Maxi Priest, Janet Kay, and Carroll Thompson have been key figures in promoting and popularizing Lovers Rock both within and outside the UK.

7. Reggae Rock

Reggae Rock is a genre that harmoniously blends the rhythmic foundation of reggae with the energetic and amplified aspects of rock, among other genres. Let’s delve deeper based on the points provided:

Origin:

While the fusion of reggae and rock elements can be traced back to earlier decades, the specific genre of Reggae Rock as we recognize it today began gaining significant prominence in the 2010s, especially in the United States. Bands and artists began to integrate more reggae beats into their rock compositions, leading to the emergence of this distinct sound.

Characteristics:

• Merges Reggae with Rock: At its core, Reggae Rock combines the distinctive rhythmic patterns of reggae, typically characterized by its offbeat rhythms and steady tempo, with the amplified instruments and powerful vocals found in rock music.
• Ska Influences: Ska, which itself is a precursor to reggae, is often incorporated into Reggae Rock. Ska’s fast-paced rhythm and use of horns can be heard in many Reggae Rock tracks.
• Punk Elements: The rebellious spirit and fast tempo of punk can sometimes be merged with the laid-back vibes of reggae, creating an interesting juxtaposition in the music.
• Hip-Hop Elements: Reggae Rock can also incorporate elements of hip-hop, such as rap verses or hip-hop-inspired drum beats, bringing another layer of urban influence to the mix.

In summary, Reggae Rock is a testament to the evolving nature of music and the endless possibilities when genres collide. Bands like Sublime (and later Sublime with Rome), Rebelution, and Slightly Stoopid have been at the forefront of this genre, showcasing its appeal to audiences who appreciate the blend of relaxed reggae vibes with the dynamism of rock.

8. African Reggae

African Reggae is a vibrant manifestation of reggae’s global reach, infusing the core elements of reggae with the rich musical and cultural flavors of the African continent. Let’s delve deeper based on the given points:

Origin:

After Bob Marley and other reggae greats popularized the genre on the global stage in the 1970s, reggae’s influence rapidly spread across continents, including Africa. The post-1970s era saw the rise of African musicians embracing reggae while incorporating their distinct regional sounds.

Characteristics:

• Reggae with a Distinct African Touch: While the rhythmic foundation of African Reggae is consistent with the traditional reggae sound, it is embellished with instruments, melodies, and rhythms unique to various African regions.
• Influenced by Local Sounds: African Reggae often incorporates traditional African instruments such as the kora, balafon, and talking drum. The guitar work, too, can be reminiscent of styles like highlife or soukous, bringing a uniquely African melodic flair to the music.
• Thematic Distinctiveness: Just as reggae from Jamaica often touches on themes of Rastafarianism, resistance, and back-to-Africa sentiments, African Reggae delves into topics that resonate with the continent’s diverse populace. Themes could range from post-colonial identity, struggles against oppression, unity, and pan-Africanism, to more localized social issues and narratives.

Prominent figures in African Reggae include artists like Alpha Blondy from Côte d’Ivoire, Lucky Dube from South Africa, and Tiken Jah Fakoly from Côte d’Ivoire, among others. Their music stands as a testament to reggae’s universal appeal and its adaptability to various cultural contexts. Through African Reggae, the continent has made the genre its own, adding to the rich tapestry of global reggae sounds.

9. Gospel Reggae

Gospel Reggae is a spiritual and uplifting subgenre of reggae, fusing the core elements of reggae music with messages rooted in Christian faith. Here’s a deeper exploration based on the provided points:

Origin:

Gospel Reggae emerged as some reggae artists underwent religious conversions to Christianity. While Rastafarian themes were (and remain) deeply embedded in much of reggae music, with its emphasis on the divinity of Haile Selassie I and connections to the Bible, some artists began to shift their focus to a more conventional Christian interpretation and message. This transition, both in personal faith and musical direction, led to the development of Gospel Reggae.

Characteristics:

• Combines Reggae Rhythms with Christian-Themed Lyrics: Gospel Reggae maintains the unmistakable rhythms, beats, and melodies of traditional reggae. However, its lyrical content is distinct. Songs often contain praise and worship themes, scripture references, and messages about Jesus Christ, salvation, and Christian living.
• Uplifting and Positive: True to the nature of gospel music across various genres, Gospel Reggae songs are often positive, uplifting, and meant to inspire hope, faith, and devotion among listeners.
• Diverse in Style: Just as reggae has various subgenres, Gospel Reggae can range from roots-style tracks to dancehall beats, but all centered around Christian themes.

Over time, Gospel Reggae has carved out a niche for itself, with dedicated fans and artists who produce music that feeds both the spirit and the love for reggae rhythms. Artists like Papa San, Christafari, and Stitchie have been influential in popularizing and shaping the Gospel Reggae sound.

10. Reggaestep

Reggaestep is a fusion genre that brings together the rhythmic allure of reggae with the electronic intensity of dubstep. Let’s delve deeper based on the provided points:

Origin:

Emerging in the 2000s, Reggaestep is a product of the global digital music evolution. As electronic music genres like dubstep began to gain traction worldwide, producers and artists started experimenting by blending these new sounds with established genres. Reggae, with its rich history and distinct rhythmic patterns, naturally became a choice for fusion with dubstep, leading to the birth of Reggaestep.

Characteristics:

• Fuses Reggae with Dubstep Elements: At its core, Reggaestep takes the steady, offbeat rhythms of reggae and infuses them with the wobbly basslines, synthesized sounds, and drops characteristic of dubstep.
• 140 BPM: A defining feature of dubstep is its tempo, which is typically around 140 BPM. Reggaestep adopts this tempo, making the music more suited for energetic dancing than traditional reggae.
• Bass-Heavy and Electronic: True to its dubstep heritage, Reggaestep is heavy on the bass and makes extensive use of electronic instrumentation and production techniques. This gives it a more futuristic and intense sound compared to traditional reggae.
• Vocals and Breakdowns: Reggaestep tracks often incorporate reggae-style vocals, either newly recorded or sampled from classic tracks. These vocals can be intertwined with intense electronic breakdowns, offering a balance between organic and synthesized sounds.

In essence, Reggaestep is a testament to the continually evolving nature of music, showing how genres can meld in the age of digital production and global connectivity. It appeals to fans of both reggae and electronic music, offering a unique blend that is both familiar and innovative.

FAQs:

Q: Which subgenre is closely associated with dancing?

• A: Dancehall.

Q: Which subgenre focuses predominantly on romantic themes?

• A: Lovers Rock.

Q: Which reggae subgenre incorporates electronic elements from dubstep?

• A: Reggaestep.

Conclusion:

Reggae, with its pulsating beats and evocative lyrics, remains an influential genre worldwide. Its ability to evolve, adapt, and incorporate elements from various cultures and genres showcases its versatility and enduring appeal. Each subgenre tells its own story, yet they all remain interconnected, forming the diverse tapestry that is reggae music. Whether you’re swaying to the romantic notes of Lovers Rock or bouncing to the energetic beats of Dancehall, there’s a reggae rhythm for every soul.