Famous Jamaican Singers

Bob Marley was a Jamaican reggae singer, guitarist, and songwriter known for pioneering the genre by blending reggae, ska, and rocksteady. He increased the visibility of Jamaican music worldwide and became a global figure in popular culture. Marley was a Rastafarian icon who infused his music with spirituality and advocated for democratic social reforms, the legalization of cannabis, and Pan-Africanism. He started his career with the group Teenagers, later forming Bob Marley and the Wailers, gaining international acclaim with albums like Natty Dread and Exodus. Marley's album Legend remains the best-selling reggae album of all time.

Sean Paul is a Jamaican dancehall deejay known for his international success in the music industry. He rose to fame with his album Dutty Rock and hit singles like "Get Busy" and "Temperature". Paul has been nominated for several Grammy Awards for Best Reggae Album, with Dutty Rock winning the award. He has collaborated with various artists on popular singles such as "Baby Boy" by Beyoncé and "Cheap Thrills" by Sia, some of which have achieved billions of views on YouTube, showcasing his widespread appeal and influence in the music world.

Vybz Kartel, a Jamaican dancehall deejay known by various nicknames including Worl' Boss and Teacha, achieved folk-hero status in Jamaica with his provocative lyrics and mischievous public persona. He captivated the dancehall audience with hits like "Romping Shop," "Dancehall Hero," and "Summer Time." Kartel collaborated with hip hop and R&B artists, inspiring Western musicians like Drake. Despite being sentenced to life imprisonment for murder, Kartel continued to release music and achieved success with hits like "Fever," which was certified gold. He was released in 2024 due to ill health.

Damian Marley is a highly acclaimed Jamaican artist known for his versatility as a DJ, singer, lyricist, and rapper. With a successful career spanning several decades, he has solidified his reputation as a multi-talented musician. Marley's music has earned him four prestigious Grammy Awards, showcasing his exceptional talent and contribution to the music industry. He continues to captivate audiences worldwide with his unique blend of reggae, hip-hop, and dancehall influences, establishing himself as a prominent figure in the music scene.

Rita Marley is a renowned Jamaican singer-songwriter and entrepreneur. She gained fame as a member of the reggae vocal group the I Threes, who served as backing vocalists for Bob Marley and the Wailers. Rita's contributions to reggae music have been significant, showcasing her talent and passion for the genre. Beyond her music career, she has also made a mark as an entrepreneur, demonstrating her business acumen and versatility in various professional endeavors. Rita Marley's legacy in the music industry is enduring and impactful.

Spice, known as the Queen of Dancehall, is a prominent Jamaican deejay and singer with a reputation for her aggressive flow, musical versatility, and outspoken lyrics. She gained recognition in 2000 at the Sting dancehall festival and released singles under Madhouse Records. Her major success came in 2009 with the controversial single "Romping Shop" with Vybz Kartel. Spice signed with VP Records, released her debut EP in 2014, and achieved further success with her mixtape Captured (2018) and studio albums 10 (2021) and Emancipated (2022), showcasing her talent and dedication to her music career.

Bunny Wailer was a Jamaican singer-songwriter and percussionist, known for his contributions to reggae music. As an original member of The Wailers alongside Bob Marley and Peter Tosh, he played a significant role in shaping the genre. With three Grammy Awards to his name, Bunny Wailer was recognized as a standard-bearer of reggae music. Throughout his career, he was known by various monikers such as Jah B, Bunny O'Riley, and Bunny Livingston, solidifying his legacy in the music industry.

Beenie Man is a prominent Jamaican dancehall deejay who has made significant contributions to the music industry. With a career spanning several decades, he has released numerous albums and singles that have achieved international success. Known for his energetic performances and distinctive vocal style, Beenie Man has collaborated with various artists and producers, solidifying his reputation as a versatile and influential figure in the dancehall genre. His work continues to resonate with audiences around the world, cementing his status as a legendary artist.

Marcia Barrett is a renowned Jamaican-British singer known for her contribution as one of the original members of the vocal group Boney M. With a successful career in the music industry, she has captivated audiences with her powerful vocals and stage presence. Barrett's professional life is characterized by numerous hit songs and memorable performances that have solidified her place as a respected figure in the world of music. Her talent and dedication have earned her a prominent position in the music industry, leaving a lasting impact on fans worldwide.

Tessanne Chin is a Jamaican recording artist recognized for winning Season 5 of NBC's The Voice. She has opened for renowned artists like Patti LaBelle and toured with Jimmy Cliff. Her major label debut album, Count On My Love, was released in 2014 under Republic Records. With a successful career in the music industry, Tessanne continues to captivate audiences with her powerful vocals and compelling performances.

Millie Small was a Jamaican singer renowned for her iconic hit "My Boy Lollipop" in 1964, which reached number two on both UK and US charts and sold over seven million copies globally. This success marked a significant milestone for Island Records, catapulting the label to mainstream recognition. Small's career as the Caribbean's first international recording star and most successful female performer solidified her status as a music industry trailblazer, leaving a lasting impact on the music scene with her vibrant and influential sound.

Cedella Marley Minto is a Jamaican singer who gained recognition as a member of the group Ziggy Marley and the Melody Makers, where she contributed to their success in winning three Grammy awards. With a strong musical background as the daughter of iconic reggae artists Bob Marley and Rita Marley, Cedella has showcased her talent and passion for music through her captivating performances and contributions to the reggae music scene. Her professional journey continues to inspire fans worldwide with her unique vocal style and musical prowess.

Omi, a Jamaican singer, gained international fame with his 2012 single "Cheerleader," which became a global hit after a remix. He is signed to Ultra Music, a division of Sony Music, where he released his debut album "Me 4 U" in 2015. Omi's music style combines reggae and pop influences, creating catchy and upbeat tracks that resonate with audiences worldwide. His success in the music industry has solidified his position as a prominent figure in the contemporary music scene.

Burning Spear, known as Winston Rodney OD, is a Jamaican roots reggae singer-songwriter, vocalist, and musician. As a Rastafarian figure, he has established himself as one of the most impactful and enduring artists in the roots reggae genre since the 1970s. His professional life is characterized by a commitment to spreading Rastafarian culture through his music, with a distinct focus on social and political themes. Burning Spear's work has left a lasting legacy in the world of reggae music, influencing generations of artists.

Koffee is a Jamaican singer, songwriter, rapper, and guitarist known for her versatile musical talents. She gained recognition with her debut single "Burning" in 2017 and later signed with Columbia Records. Koffee's 2019 EP "Rapture" won the Grammy Award for Best Reggae Album, making her the youngest and only woman to achieve this honor. Her music showcases a fusion of reggae and other genres, demonstrating her creativity and skill as an artist. In 2022, she released her latest album "Gifted," further solidifying her position in the music industry.

Beres Hammond is a Jamaican reggae singer renowned for his contributions to lovers rock music. Beginning his career in the 1970s, Hammond achieved significant success in the 1990s, solidifying his status as a prominent figure in the reggae music scene. Known for his soulful vocals and heartfelt lyrics, he has captivated audiences worldwide with his smooth and melodious sound. Hammond's music continues to resonate with fans, earning him a reputation as a legendary artist within the reggae genre.

Dennis Brown was a Jamaican reggae singer who began his career in the late 1960s at the age of eleven. He recorded over 75 albums and became a major star of lovers rock, a subgenre of reggae. Bob Marley regarded Brown as his favorite singer, calling him "The Crown Prince of Reggae." Brown's influence extended to future generations of reggae singers, solidifying his legacy as a significant figure in the genre.

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. As a reggae pioneer, he performed for six decades, contributing significantly to the establishment of the genre. His 1968 song "Do the Reggay" is recognized as the inspiration for the genre name reggae. Hibbert's band achieved critical acclaim, winning a Grammy Award in 2005 for their album True Love, solidifying his impact on the music industry.

Liz Mitchell is a Jamaican-British singer renowned for her role as an original member of the disco/reggae band Boney M in the 1970s. With her captivating vocals, she contributed to the band's success and helped create their distinctive sound. Mitchell's professional life is highlighted by her significant influence on the music industry, particularly within the disco and reggae genres. Her talent and dedication have earned her recognition and respect, establishing her as a prominent figure in the world of music.

Sister Nancy, also known as Muma Nancy, is a renowned Jamaican dancehall DJ and singer, recognized as the first female dancehall DJ. With a career spanning over two decades, she has been a dominant female voice in the dancehall scene. One of her most iconic tracks, "Bam Bam," has achieved legendary status in the reggae genre, labeled as a well-known reggae anthem by BBC and a classic by The Observer. Sister Nancy's professional journey is marked by groundbreaking contributions to dancehall music and a lasting impact on the industry.

Safaree Samuels is an American rapper who initially gained recognition as part of the hip hop group Hoodstars alongside Nicki Minaj. He later ventured into a solo career, releasing one studio album and five mixtapes independently. Samuels transitioned into reality television by joining the cast of Love & Hip Hop: Hollywood in 2016. He continued his reality TV career by appearing on Love & Hip Hop: New York, Love & Hip Hop: Atlanta, and Love & Hip Hop: Miami, establishing himself as the only cast member to work on all four shows.

Sizzla Kalonji, also known as Sizzla, is a highly acclaimed Jamaican reggae musician. With a prolific career spanning several decades, he has established himself as one of the most successful and influential contemporary reggae artists. Sizzla is recognized for his extensive discography, having released a remarkable total of 56 solo albums by 2018. His music has resonated with audiences worldwide, earning him both commercial success and critical acclaim, solidifying his place as a prominent figure in the reggae music scene.

Masego, professionally known as Masego, is a talented musician and singer renowned for his unique incorporation of the saxophone in his music. He gained recognition through his EPs, "The Pink Polo EP" and "Loose Thoughts," released in 2016, followed by the popular collaborative track "Tadow" with FKJ in 2017. The release of his debut album "Lady Lady" in 2018 further solidified his presence in the music industry. Masego's album "Studying Abroad: Extended Stay" received a Grammy nomination in the "Best Progressive R&B Album" category in 2022.

Cedella Booker, also known as Sidilla Editha Booker, was a Jamaican singer and writer with a notable professional career. She gained recognition for her contributions to the music industry, particularly through her involvement in reggae music. Booker's talents extended beyond music, as she was also known for her work as a writer. Her career encompassed a diverse range of creative pursuits, showcasing her versatility and passion for artistic expression. Throughout her professional life, Cedella Booker made a lasting impact on the cultural landscape of Jamaica and beyond.

Precious Wilson is a Jamaican soul singer known for her powerful and soulful voice. She rose to fame as the lead singer of the group Eruption in the late 1970s, achieving international success with hits like "One Way Ticket" and "I Can't Stand the Rain." Wilson later pursued a solo career, releasing several albums and singles that showcased her vocal talent and versatility. Throughout her professional life, she has captivated audiences with her dynamic performances and continues to be recognized as a talented soul artist.

Joseph Hill was a prominent figure in the reggae music scene, serving as the lead singer and songwriter for the renowned roots reggae group Culture. He gained widespread recognition for his work, particularly for the hit songs "Two Sevens Clash" and "International Herb". Throughout his career, Hill recorded a total of twenty-two albums, showcasing his musical talent and lyrical prowess. His contributions to reggae music solidified his legacy as a respected artist in the genre, leaving a lasting impact on fans and fellow musicians alike.

Gyptian is a well-known Jamaican reggae singer who is recognized for his contributions to the roots reggae and dancehall subgenres. With his stage name derived from the word "Egyptian," Gyptian has garnered international acclaim for his smooth vocals and catchy melodies. He has released numerous hit songs that have resonated with reggae fans worldwide. Gyptian's professional journey has been marked by collaborations with renowned artists, performances at major music festivals, and awards that highlight his talent and influence within the reggae music industry.

Alton Ellis was a pioneering Jamaican singer-songwriter known for his significant contributions to the development of rocksteady music. He earned the informal title of the "Godfather of Rocksteady" for his innovative work in the genre. In 2006, Ellis was honored with an induction into the International Reggae And World Music Awards Hall Of Fame, recognizing his lasting impact on the music industry. Throughout his career, he consistently showcased his talent and creativity, leaving a lasting legacy in the world of reggae music.

Max Romeo is a Jamaican reggae and roots reggae recording artist known for achieving chart success in Jamaica and the United Kingdom. He gained popularity through hits with the vocal group the Emotions and is recognized for his song "Wet Dream" (1968), which introduced a new style of reggae with its overtly sexual lyrics. Max Romeo's professional career has been marked by his contributions to reggae music and his ability to innovate within the genre.

Ken Boothe is a Jamaican vocalist renowned for his unique vibrato and timbre. He gained global recognition as one of Jamaica's top vocalists, with a string of crossover hits that resonated with reggae enthusiasts and mainstream listeners alike. His professional journey is marked by a successful career in music, showcasing his exceptional vocal talents and appealing to a diverse audience. Boothe's contributions to the music industry have solidified his status as a respected and influential figure, leaving a lasting impact on the world of music.

Ini Kamoze is a Jamaican reggae artist known for his career that started in the early 1980s. He gained widespread recognition in 1994 with his hit song "Here Comes the Hotstepper," which reached the top of the US Billboard Hot 100 chart and also achieved success in Denmark, New Zealand, and the UK. Throughout his professional life, Ini Kamoze has established himself as a prominent figure in the reggae music scene, showcasing his talent and unique style to a global audience.

Yellowman, also known as King Yellowman, is a Jamaican reggae and dancehall deejay who gained popularity in the 1980s. He is considered a pioneer of the genre, credited with shaping the coarse and direct sound of today's dancehall music. Yellowman rose to prominence with a series of hit singles that established his reputation both in Jamaica and internationally. Spearheading the first generation of dancehall deejays, he played a significant role in bringing the genre to a global audience.

Jah Cure, also known as Iyah Cure, is a prominent Jamaican reggae musician. Raised in Kingston, he was bestowed with the name Jah Cure by fellow reggae artist Capleton. Known for his soulful vocals and heartfelt lyrics, Jah Cure has made a significant impact on the reggae music scene. His music often carries powerful messages of love, unity, and social consciousness. With a successful career spanning several decades, Jah Cure continues to captivate audiences worldwide with his unique blend of reggae and soulful melodies.

Mikey Dread was a highly influential figure in the world of reggae music, known for his work as a singer, producer, and broadcaster. His professional life was marked by a deep passion for the genre and a commitment to innovation. He played a significant role in shaping the sound and direction of reggae music, and his contributions continue to be celebrated by fans and fellow musicians alike. Mikey Dread's legacy as a talented performer and creative force in the industry remains enduring and impactful.

Barrington Levy is a renowned Jamaican reggae and dancehall artist known for his distinctive vocal style and influential contributions to the music industry. With a career spanning several decades, Levy has released numerous hit songs and albums that have solidified his status as a reggae icon. His powerful lyrics and captivating performances have earned him a dedicated global fan base and critical acclaim. Levy continues to tour extensively, sharing his musical talents with audiences around the world and preserving his legacy as a reggae legend.

Mavado is a prominent Jamaican dancehall singer who gained recognition in the music industry. In 2011, he signed with DJ Khaled's We the Best Music Group, a then-label under Cash Money and Republic Records. Mavado collaborated with Khaled on various projects and appeared on several of his studio albums. Despite parting ways with the label before the release of Khaled Khaled in 2021, Mavado continued to make a mark in the music scene with hit singles like "Give It All to Me" featuring Nicki Minaj, in anticipation of his unreleased major label studio album.

Busy Signal is a prominent Jamaican dancehall reggae artist known for his energetic performances and versatile musical style. He rose to fame with hit songs such as "Step Out" and "One More Night," showcasing his talent for blending reggae, dancehall, and R&B influences. Busy Signal has collaborated with renowned artists and producers, gaining international recognition for his infectious rhythms and catchy lyrics. His career has been marked by successful albums, tours, and performances at major music festivals, solidifying his status as a respected figure in the reggae music scene.

Tami Chynn is a talented Jamaican singer, songwriter, and dancer known for her vibrant performances and captivating music. With a career rooted in the entertainment industry, she has made a name for herself through her powerful vocals and energetic stage presence. Tami Chynn's music showcases her versatility and creativity, drawing inspiration from various genres to create a unique sound that resonates with audiences worldwide. Her dedication to her craft and passion for music have solidified her status as a respected artist in the music industry.

Alborosie, born Alberto D'Ascola, is an Italian reggae artist widely recognized for his contributions to the reggae music scene. As the "Italian Reggae Ambassador," he has established a successful career with his distinctive style and sound. Alborosie has gained international acclaim for his music, which often explores themes of social justice and cultural identity. He is known for his versatile talents as a singer, songwriter, producer, and multi-instrumentalist, showcasing his dedication and passion for reggae music through his impactful work.

Bushwick Bill was a Jamaican rapper known for his role in the Texas hip hop group Geto Boys. Originally joining the group as a breakdancer in 1986, he later became one third of the group alongside Willie D and Scarface. With Geto Boys, he contributed to the group's success and influence in the hip hop scene. Bushwick Bill's unique style and contributions to the group's music solidified his place as a prominent figure in the rap industry during his career.

Junior Delgado was a renowned reggae singer known for his roots style. He began his professional career in the music industry, gaining recognition for his unique vocal delivery and powerful lyrics. Delgado released several successful albums and singles throughout his career, collaborating with various prominent artists in the reggae genre. His music often carried social and political messages, resonating with audiences worldwide. Delgado's passion for reggae music and his dedication to his craft solidified his reputation as a talented and influential figure in the music industry.

Lady Saw, known for her stage name Marion Hall, is a Jamaican singer and songwriter with a career spanning over 3 decades. She was formerly dubbed the Queen of Dancehall before passing on the title to Spice. Lady Saw gained significant recognition for her guest appearance on No Doubt's hit song "Underneath It All," which achieved triple Platinum status and earned a Grammy award for No Doubt. Her contributions to the music industry have solidified her reputation as a talented and respected artist.

Justin Hinds was a Jamaican ska and conscious roots reggae vocalist known for his work with Duke Reid's Treasure Isle Records. His most famous song, "Carry Go Bring Come," topped the charts in Jamaica. Hinds recorded seventy singles between 1964 and 1966 and was the leading artist on the label. His collaboration with his backing singers, the Dominoes, added depth to his music. Hinds' powerful vocals and meaningful lyrics cemented his reputation as a prominent figure in the Jamaican music scene.

Dobby Dobson was a renowned Jamaican reggae singer and record producer known for his soulful voice and heartfelt lyrics. He earned the nickname "The Loving Pauper" from one of his popular songs, showcasing his ability to convey deep emotions through music. Throughout his career, Dobson captivated audiences with his unique sound and meaningful storytelling. His contributions to the reggae genre solidified his place as a respected figure in the music industry, leaving a lasting impact on fans and fellow musicians alike.

Barry Llewellyn was a Jamaican singer known for his role as a founding member of the rocksteady and reggae vocal trio, The Heptones. He gained widespread recognition and popularity during the 1960s and 1970s for his contributions to the group's musical success. Llewellyn's influence extended beyond his era, with many of The Heptones' songs being re-recorded by later generations of musicians. His professional legacy as a talented vocalist and key figure in the development of reggae music continues to be celebrated and honored in the music industry.