Famous Jamaican Reggae Singers

Bob Marley was a Jamaican reggae singer, guitarist, and songwriter known for fusing elements of reggae, ska, and rocksteady. He rose to fame with the group the Wailers before embarking on a successful solo career as Bob Marley and the Wailers. Marley's music increased the visibility of Jamaican music globally, making him a prominent figure in popular culture. He was a Rastafarian icon who infused his music with spirituality and advocated for social reform, cannabis legalization, and Pan-Africanism. Marley's legacy includes best-selling albums, numerous awards, and induction into prestigious music halls of fame.

Vybz Kartel is a Jamaican dancehall deejay known for his provocative lyrics and mischievous public persona, earning him folk-hero status in Jamaica. Referred to as Worl' Boss or Teacha, Kartel has captivated the dancehall audience with hits like "Romping Shop," "Dancehall Hero," and "Summer Time." He has collaborated with hip hop and R&B artists and inspired Western musicians like Drake. Despite being imprisoned for murder, Kartel continued to release music, with hits like "Fever" achieving gold status.

Bunny Wailer was a Jamaican singer-songwriter, percussionist, and a three-time Grammy Award winner. He was an original member of the reggae group The Wailers, along with Bob Marley and Peter Tosh. Bunny Wailer is considered one of the longtime standard-bearers of reggae music. Throughout his career, he was known by various names such as Jah B, Bunny O'Riley, and Bunny Livingston. His contributions to reggae music and his unique sound have solidified his legacy as a prominent figure in the genre.

Spice, also known as the Queen of Dancehall, is a highly respected Jamaican dancehall deejay and singer known for her aggressive flow, musical versatility, and outspoken lyrics. She gained recognition in 2000 at the annual dancehall festival Sting and released her first single in 2003. Spice's major success came with the controversial single "Romping Shop" in 2009. She has released multiple singles and albums, including "So Mi Like It" and "Captured," which debuted at number one on the Billboard Reggae Albums chart. Spice has been nominated for prestigious awards like the Grammy Awards and has showcased her journey in the music industry on reality TV.

Tessanne Chin is a Jamaican recording artist who gained fame by winning Season 5 of NBC's The Voice under coach Adam Levine. She has shared the stage with renowned artists like Patti LaBelle, Peabo Bryson, and Gladys Knight, and toured extensively with Jimmy Cliff. Her major label debut album, Count On My Love, was released under Republic Records. Chin's professional journey showcases her talent, versatility, and dedication to music, establishing her as a successful artist in the industry.

Dennis Brown was a Jamaican reggae singer known for his prolific career that began at a young age. He recorded over 75 albums and emerged as a major star in the lovers rock subgenre of reggae. Bob Marley regarded him as his favorite singer and dubbed him "The Crown Prince of Reggae". Brown's influence extended to future generations of reggae artists, solidifying his legacy as a significant figure in the genre's history.

Toots Hibbert was a Jamaican singer and songwriter known for his role as the lead vocalist of the reggae and ska band Toots and the Maytals. A reggae pioneer, he contributed to the establishment of the genre's fundamentals over his six-decade career. His 1968 song "Do the Reggay" is recognized as the inspiration for the genre name reggae. Toots and the Maytals' album True Love earned a Grammy Award in 2005, highlighting his significant impact on the music industry.

Cedella Booker was a Jamaican singer and writer known for her contributions to reggae music. She gained recognition for her powerful vocal performances and songwriting skills. As a singer, she captivated audiences with her soulful voice and expressive delivery. Additionally, her talent as a writer shone through in her poignant lyrics that resonated with listeners. Cedella Booker's professional career was marked by her passion for music and her ability to inspire through her artistry.

Burning Spear, known for his powerful vocals and socially conscious lyrics, has had a prolific professional career as a reggae singer-songwriter and musician. Embracing Rastafarian beliefs, he has become a prominent figure in the roots reggae genre, making a significant impact since the 1970s. With a distinctive sound and a focus on themes of resistance, spirituality, and African heritage, Burning Spear has garnered widespread acclaim, solidifying his reputation as one of the most influential and enduring artists in reggae music.

Alton Ellis was a Jamaican singer-songwriter known for his pioneering contributions to the rocksteady genre. Referred to as the "Godfather of Rocksteady," he played a significant role in shaping the sound and style of the music. In recognition of his influence and talent, Ellis was inducted into the International Reggae And World Music Awards Hall Of Fame in 2006. Throughout his career, he left a lasting impact on the music industry, cementing his legacy as a key figure in reggae history.

Max Romeo is a Jamaican reggae and roots reggae recording artist known for his chart success in Jamaica and the UK. He gained popularity through hits with the vocal group the Emotions before embarking on a solo career. His song "Wet Dream" in 1968 introduced a new style of reggae with its overtly sexual lyrics. Max Romeo's music has had a lasting impact on the reggae genre, establishing him as a prominent figure in the industry with a unique and influential sound.

Yellowman, also known as King Yellowman, is a Jamaican reggae and dancehall deejay who gained popularity in the 1980s. Considered a pioneer in the genre, he is credited with creating the coarse, crude, and direct sound of today's dancehall. Yellowman rose to prominence with a series of hit singles, establishing his reputation as one of the first generation of dancehall deejays. He played a key role in bringing dancehall music to an international audience, solidifying his legacy in the music industry.

Ken Boothe is a Jamaican vocalist renowned for his unique vibrato and timbre. He has established himself as one of Jamaica's top vocalists, gaining international acclaim for his crossover hits that resonate with reggae enthusiasts and mainstream listeners alike. Boothe's professional career is characterized by a consistent delivery of soulful and emotive performances, earning him a reputation as a versatile artist capable of bridging musical genres and captivating audiences with his powerful voice and distinctive style.

Koffee, also known as Mikayla Victoria Simpson, is a talented Jamaican musician excelling in singing, songwriting, rapping, and guitar playing. She gained recognition with the release of her debut single "Burning" in 2017 and signed with Columbia Records after another successful single. Koffee achieved a significant milestone by winning the Grammy Award for Best Reggae Album with her debut EP "Rapture" at the 62nd Annual Grammy Awards. Her latest album "Gifted" was released in March 2022, showcasing her continued growth and success in the music industry.

Barrington Levy is a prominent Jamaican reggae and dancehall artist known for his unique vocal style and energetic performances. He rose to fame in the late 1970s and 1980s with hits such as "Under Mi Sensi" and "Black Roses." Levy's career has spanned several decades, during which he has released numerous albums and collaborated with various artists. His music is known for blending traditional reggae sounds with modern dancehall rhythms, making him a highly influential figure in the reggae music scene.

Junior Delgado, born Oscar Hibbert, was a renowned reggae singer known for his roots style. He began his music career in the 1970s, gaining recognition for his powerful vocals and socially conscious lyrics. Delgado collaborated with various producers and musicians, releasing several successful albums and singles throughout his career. He established himself as a prominent figure in the reggae music scene, garnering a loyal fan base and critical acclaim for his distinctive sound and heartfelt performances. Delgado's legacy continues to influence reggae music to this day.

Busy Signal is a prominent Jamaican dancehall reggae artist known for his energetic and versatile musical style. He has released numerous hit songs and albums that have garnered international acclaim. Busy Signal is recognized for his distinctive vocals and engaging stage presence, making him a popular performer at music festivals and concerts worldwide. With a career spanning over two decades, he continues to be a leading figure in the reggae music scene, collaborating with other artists and consistently delivering chart-topping tracks.

Dobby Dobson was a prominent Jamaican reggae singer and record producer known for his soulful and melodious voice. His career was highlighted by hits such as "The Loving Pauper," which earned him the nickname by which he was widely recognized. Dobson's music resonated with audiences globally, showcasing his talent for storytelling and emotional delivery. As a respected figure in the reggae music scene, he made significant contributions to the genre and left a lasting impact on fans and fellow musicians alike.