Reggae continued to be interpreted by other cultures and music scenes, continually evolving and changing according to whatever region had embraced it.
During the 70s, the raw music in the UK was punk. With its roots firmly entrenched in the working class, it was a pure music, born out of the frustration and despair of those who were experiencing the hardships of the economy at the time. Fueled by politics, punk became a ferocious call to the people, to the disenfranchised. During this time, reggae experienced a bit of a comeback in the UK.
Bands like UB40 and Steel Pulse offered a more palatable, westernized version of reggae that was regarded as nothing more than a bastardized version of authentic reggae, as it lacked the political underpinnings and themes of protest. Nevertheless, this "suburban" version of reggae continued to introduce the genre to an even wider audience. During this same time in the UK, the ska movement was also experiencing growth, thanks to bands like The Specials and Madness.
Pressing on to the 80s, the next wave of innovators began to emerge. Everything from crossovers such as Eddie Grant to punk bands like The Clash were exhibiting a reggae influence on some level. One of Bob Marley's female back-up singers, Judy Mowatt, emerged as a soloist in a primarily male dominated genre. Also springing up was yet another iteration of reggae, "ragga", which was a blending of reggae, rap, and electronic dance beats. It seemed as though there was a flavor or style of reggae for just about everyone.
The 1990s are considered by some to be the "golden era" of modern reggae. Dub, reggae, dancehall - all stemming from the same foundation, was making its mark on the pop charts and in the clubs and discos of the world. Artists like Shabba Ranks, Beenie Man and Buju Banton rose to fame with tracks that were tailor made for the dance floor. Many of the tracks from this era are still popular dance hits in clubs today. The 90s also represents the last time that reggae was constructed and recorded with actual instruments; today, much of what is considered dancehall, dub, or reggae is primarily made using samples, software and editing suites on a computer. For this reason, many purists consider the 90s to be the golden ear for reggae.
During the 70s, the raw music in the UK was punk. With its roots firmly entrenched in the working class, it was a pure music, born out of the frustration and despair of those who were experiencing the hardships of the economy at the time. Fueled by politics, punk became a ferocious call to the people, to the disenfranchised. During this time, reggae experienced a bit of a comeback in the UK.
Bands like UB40 and Steel Pulse offered a more palatable, westernized version of reggae that was regarded as nothing more than a bastardized version of authentic reggae, as it lacked the political underpinnings and themes of protest. Nevertheless, this "suburban" version of reggae continued to introduce the genre to an even wider audience. During this same time in the UK, the ska movement was also experiencing growth, thanks to bands like The Specials and Madness.
Pressing on to the 80s, the next wave of innovators began to emerge. Everything from crossovers such as Eddie Grant to punk bands like The Clash were exhibiting a reggae influence on some level. One of Bob Marley's female back-up singers, Judy Mowatt, emerged as a soloist in a primarily male dominated genre. Also springing up was yet another iteration of reggae, "ragga", which was a blending of reggae, rap, and electronic dance beats. It seemed as though there was a flavor or style of reggae for just about everyone.
The 1990s are considered by some to be the "golden era" of modern reggae. Dub, reggae, dancehall - all stemming from the same foundation, was making its mark on the pop charts and in the clubs and discos of the world. Artists like Shabba Ranks, Beenie Man and Buju Banton rose to fame with tracks that were tailor made for the dance floor. Many of the tracks from this era are still popular dance hits in clubs today. The 90s also represents the last time that reggae was constructed and recorded with actual instruments; today, much of what is considered dancehall, dub, or reggae is primarily made using samples, software and editing suites on a computer. For this reason, many purists consider the 90s to be the golden ear for reggae.
About the Author:
BookIt.com is an online travel company determined and dedicated to becoming the leader in providing travelers with the most intuitive online booking experience full of relevant information, helpful guides and travel tips. Find great deals on jamaica Hotels at BookIt.com!