Jamaican music, mainly Reggae, has seen surge in popularity in recent times. Other sounds from the island include Ska, Dancehall and Rocksteady. Perhaps, it is not only the musical melody and in particular the beat, but also how Jamaica and the rest of the Caribbean are romanticized by not only the travel industry, but through film and other forms of media and entertainment as well.
It is interesting to know that the term “reggae” came from the Jamaican word “streggae”, which describes a person who dresses a little on the raggedy side. The story tells that one day a couple of friends started dancing and imitating the streggae. Their newly invented dance and beat was named reggae. It became popular worldwide in the 1970′s mostly through the work of the amazing musician Bob Marley.
Jamaica has a rich history with a multicultural background. Beginning with 1655, when England gained control of the island from Spain, many African were brought to the Caribbean Islands, including Jamaica through the slave trade, facilitating the mixture of the cultures, languages and religions. That is why the one-drop rhythm, which is the basis of reggae, is an original African rhythm.
There are also more traditional sounds as part of the culture including waltzes and folk music. The soulful sounds of ska are a blend of boogie-woogie and rhythm and blues. It features harmony vocals along with horn instruments. A unique style that emerged during the middle of the 20th century is a calypso style known as mento. Acoustical instruments including the guitar and banjo are used to play the blend of African and European styles forming this calypso blend.
In conclusion of this article, there is no doubt about the fact that Jamaican music will remain very popular in most areas of the world. This wonderful music takes us to a mystical place, so different from our usual day to day life scenario, the upbeat rhythms give us a lift and make us happy.
Learn about Bob Marley Legend at www.bobmarleylegend.com.