Famous Jamaican Musicians

Shaggy is a highly successful Jamaican-American reggae recording artist known for hits such as "It Wasn't Me", "Boombastic", and "Angel". He has been nominated for seven Grammy Awards and has won twice for Best Reggae Album. Shaggy also won the Brit Award for International Male Solo Artist in 2002. He was awarded the Jamaican Order of Distinction in 2007 and received an honorary Doctor of Fine Arts degree from Brown University in 2022. His career is marked by critical acclaim, commercial success, and numerous accolades.

Peter Tosh was a Jamaican reggae musician known for his contributions to the band the Wailers alongside Bob Marley and Bunny Wailer. After his time with the Wailers, Tosh pursued a successful solo career, establishing himself as a prominent artist in the reggae genre. He was also known for promoting Rastafari beliefs throughout his music and activism. Tragically, Tosh's career was cut short when he was murdered during a home invasion in 1987, leaving behind a legacy of influential music and advocacy.

Ziggy Marley is a Jamaican reggae musician known for his successful solo career and leadership in the band Ziggy Marley and the Melody Makers. He has released a total of sixteen studio albums, eight with the band and eight as a solo artist on his label, Tuff Gong Worldwide. Ziggy follows his father's legacy of recording and self-releasing all his music. He is a highly acclaimed artist, having won eight Grammy Awards and a Daytime Emmy Award for his contributions to the music industry.

Stephen Marley is a highly accomplished Jamaican-American musician, having won eight Grammy Awards in various capacities. He has found success both as a solo artist and a producer, including acclaimed albums such as "Revelation Pt. 1 – The Root of Life" and "Revelation Pt. 2 – The Fruit of Life." Marley's talent extends beyond vocals, as he often plays multiple musical instruments on his albums. His collaborations with artists like Pitbull have further showcased his versatility and skill in the music industry.

Damian Marley, known by his stage name Jr. Gong, is a Jamaican DJ, singer, lyricist, and rapper. He has achieved significant acclaim in the music industry, winning four Grammy Awards for his contributions. Marley is known for his unique blend of reggae, hip-hop, and dancehall music, which has earned him a dedicated fan base worldwide. His versatile talents as a musician and performer have solidified his reputation as a prominent figure in the music scene, continually pushing boundaries and exploring new sounds.

Cindy Breakspeare is a multi-talented Canadian-Jamaican jazz singer and musician. She gained international recognition when she was crowned Miss World in 1976. Breakspeare's musical talents have shone through her work as a jazz singer, captivating audiences with her soulful performances. Her contributions to the music industry have been widely acclaimed, establishing her as a respected figure in the world of jazz. Breakspeare's passion for music and her undeniable talent have solidified her reputation as a prominent artist in the industry.

Buju Banton, a Jamaican dancehall, ragga, and reggae singer, is considered one of the most significant artists in Jamaican music. He gained prominence in 1992 with the release of his albums Stamina Daddy and Mr. Mention, the latter becoming the best-selling album in Jamaican history. Banton holds the record for the most No. 1 singles in Jamaica, surpassing even Bob Marley. Throughout his career, he collaborated with international artists from various genres and incorporated his Rastafari faith into his music, particularly on albums like 'Til Shiloh and Inna Heights.

Jimmy Cliff is a Jamaican musician, multi-instrumentalist, singer, and actor known for his contributions to ska, rocksteady, reggae, and soul music. He is recognized for his hit songs like "Many Rivers to Cross," "You Can Get It If You Really Want," and "The Harder They Come." Cliff's covers of popular songs, such as "Wild World" and "I Can See Clearly Now," have also garnered acclaim. His work in films like The Harder They Come and his induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame further solidify his impact on the music industry.

Ky-Mani Marley is a Jamaican reggae musician known for his contributions to the music industry. His talent was recognized with a Grammy nomination for his album Many More Roads in 2001, showcasing his skill and versatility as an artist. Marley has built a successful career, drawing inspiration from his reggae roots and creating a unique sound that resonates with audiences worldwide. With a passion for music and a dedication to his craft, he continues to make a mark in the industry with his soulful and captivating performances.

Shabba Ranks, born Rexton Rawlston Fernando Gordon OD, is a Jamaican dancehall musician who gained international fame in the late 1980s and early 1990s. He was one of the most popular Jamaican artists globally and achieved significant success in North America. Ranks released several studio albums, including "Just Reality," "As Raw as Ever," and "X-tra Naked," all of which won Grammy Awards for Best Reggae Album. His hit songs "Mr. Loverman" and "Ting-A-Ling" are widely recognized as his signature tracks.

Gregory Anthony Isaacs was a highly esteemed Jamaican reggae musician known for his exceptional vocal talent. Receiving praise as "the most exquisite vocalist in reggae" by Milo Miles of The New York Times, Isaacs made a significant impact on the music industry. Throughout his professional life, he produced numerous influential reggae songs and albums that showcased his unique style and soulful voice. Isaacs' work continues to be celebrated and remembered by fans and music enthusiasts worldwide for its enduring quality and artistic depth.

Beenie Man is a highly successful Jamaican dancehall deejay known for his versatile talent and innovative style. He has made significant contributions to the dancehall genre through his energetic performances and catchy lyrics. Beenie Man has released numerous hit singles and albums, earning him international recognition and awards. Over the years, he has collaborated with various artists and producers, showcasing his versatility and creativity. His influence and impact on the music industry have solidified his reputation as one of the most prominent figures in dancehall music.

Sister Nancy, also known as Muma Nancy, is a renowned Jamaican dancehall DJ and singer who made a significant impact on the dancehall scene for over two decades. As the first female dancehall DJ, she has been recognized for her commanding presence and influential contributions to the genre. Sister Nancy's hit song "Bam Bam" has solidified her status as a reggae icon, earning accolades as a well-known reggae anthem and a classic track. Her professional legacy is marked by her pioneering role and enduring influence in the music industry.

Desmond Dekker was a Jamaican musician known for his contributions to ska, rocksteady, and reggae music. He gained international recognition with his backing group, the Aces, and their hit song "Israelites" in 1968. Dekker's career was marked by several successful tracks, including "007 (Shanty Town)," "It Mek," and "You Can Get It If You Really Want." He played a significant role in popularizing reggae music globally and remains a respected figure in the music industry.

Beres Hammond is a Jamaican reggae singer renowned for his contributions to lovers rock music. His career, which began in the 1970s, flourished in the 1990s, solidifying his position as a prominent figure in the reggae genre. Hammond's soulful melodies and heartfelt lyrics have captured the hearts of fans worldwide, earning him critical acclaim and commercial success. With his smooth vocals and timeless sound, Beres Hammond continues to inspire and uplift audiences with his music.

Sizzla Kalonji, a Jamaican reggae musician, has established himself as a prominent figure in the contemporary reggae scene. Known for his prolific output, he has released an impressive 56 solo albums as of 2018, showcasing his dedication to his craft. Sizzla's music has resonated with audiences worldwide, earning him both commercial success and critical acclaim. His powerful lyrics and distinctive style have cemented his reputation as a highly influential and respected artist in the reggae genre.

Masego, professionally known as Masego, is a Jamaican-born musician and singer renowned for his unique incorporation of the saxophone into his music. He first gained recognition with the release of two EPs in 2016, followed by the collaborative hit "Tadow" with FKJ in 2017. His debut album "Lady Lady" further solidified his position in the music industry. Masego's continued success led to a Grammy nomination for his album "Studying Abroad: Extended Stay" in the "Best Progressive R&B Album" category at the 2022 Grammy Awards.

Garnett Silk was a Jamaican reggae musician and Rastafarian known for his powerful, emotive voice. He rose to fame in the early 1990s as a talented artist, gaining recognition for his diverse vocal abilities and smooth delivery. His music resonated with audiences, earning him acclaim within the reggae music industry. Tragically, his promising career was cut short by his untimely death in 1994, as he heroically tried to save his mother from a house fire.

Jah Cure, also known as Iyah Cure, is a prominent Jamaican reggae musician. He emerged as a talented artist from Kingston and was bestowed with the name Jah Cure by fellow reggae artist Capleton. With a career spanning several decades, Jah Cure has become renowned for his soulful vocals and profound lyrics that touch on themes of love, resilience, and social consciousness. His music has resonated with audiences worldwide, earning him a dedicated fan base and solidifying his status as a respected figure in the reggae genre.

Sly Dunbar is a renowned Jamaican drummer, celebrated for his contributions as one half of the influential duo Sly and Robbie. With a career spanning decades, he has established himself as a prolific musician, recognized for his innovative drumming techniques and rhythmic precision. His collaborations with Robbie Shakespeare have produced a vast body of work that has left an indelible mark on the reggae genre, showcasing his versatility and talent as a drummer and producer.

Augustus Pablo was a prominent figure in Jamaican roots reggae and dub music scenes, active as a record producer and multi-instrumentalist during the 1970s until his passing. Known for his innovative approach to music production, he played a significant role in shaping the sound of reggae and dub music. Augustus Pablo's distinctive style and use of instruments such as the melodica and keyboards left a lasting impact on the genre, influencing musicians and producers worldwide.

Precious Wilson is a Jamaican soul singer known for her powerful and soulful vocals. She rose to fame as the lead singer of the group Eruption in the late 1970s, achieving international success with hits like "I Can't Stand the Rain" and "One Way Ticket." Wilson later pursued a solo career, releasing several albums that showcased her versatile singing style and emotional delivery. Throughout her career, she has been praised for her dynamic performances and ability to connect with audiences through her music.

Ken Boothe is a Jamaican vocalist renowned for his unique vibrato and timbre. He has earned global recognition as one of Jamaica's premier vocalists, thanks to a string of crossover hits that resonated with both reggae enthusiasts and mainstream listeners. Boothe's professional life is marked by a successful career characterized by his exceptional vocal abilities and ability to appeal to diverse audiences. Through his music, he has solidified his position as a prominent figure in the reggae music scene.

Rico Rodriguez was a highly respected trombonist known for his contributions to ska and reggae music. He collaborated with notable producers and artists, showcasing his exceptional talent and versatility. His career spanned several decades, during which he worked with prominent bands such as The Members, The Specials, and artists like Jools Holland and Paul Young. Rico's influence on the ska music scene was significant, establishing him as one of the pioneers in the genre and earning him a reputation as a highly skilled and influential musician.

Super Cat, also known as Wild Apache, is a prominent Jamaican deejay renowned for his contributions to the late 1980s and early 1990s dancehall movement. He gained widespread popularity for his unique style and lyrical prowess, earning him a reputation as one of the greatest deejays in Jamaican dancehall history. Super Cat's mentor, Early B, played a significant role in shaping his career and bestowing upon him the moniker "Wild Apache." His professional journey is marked by numerous hit songs and collaborations that have solidified his legacy in the music industry.

Max Romeo is a Jamaican reggae and roots reggae recording artist known for his chart-topping success in Jamaica and the United Kingdom. He gained recognition for his work with the vocal group the Emotions and made a significant impact with his song "Wet Dream" in 1968, which featured explicit sexual lyrics and introduced a new style of reggae music. Throughout his career, Max Romeo has continued to be a prominent figure in the reggae music scene, creating music that resonates with audiences worldwide.

Bounty Killer, known as a Jamaican reggae and dancehall deejay, is acclaimed as one of the most aggressive dancehall stars of the '90s. With a reputation as a street-tough rude boy, he possesses an unapologetic flair for gun talk in his music. Regarded as one of the greatest dancehall lyricists ever, Bounty Killer has made a significant impact on the genre with his powerful and impactful songs, solidifying his place as a prominent figure in the Jamaican music industry.

Gyptian is a Jamaican reggae singer known for his roots reggae music style, often incorporating elements of dancehall. He has gained recognition for his soulful vocals and catchy melodies, establishing himself as a prominent figure in the reggae music scene. Gyptian has released several successful albums and singles, earning critical acclaim and a loyal fan base worldwide. He is known for his dynamic performances and ability to connect with audiences through his music, solidifying his reputation as a talented and influential reggae artist.

Alton Ellis was a Jamaican singer-songwriter and one of the pioneers of rocksteady music. He gained recognition as the "Godfather of Rocksteady" for his influential contributions to the genre. Ellis was known for his soulful voice and poignant lyrics, which resonated with audiences worldwide. In 2006, he was honored with an induction into the International Reggae And World Music Awards Hall Of Fame, solidifying his legacy as a trailblazer in the reggae music industry.

Clement Seymour "Coxsone" Dodd was a Jamaican record producer known for his influential role in shaping the development of ska and reggae music from the 1950s onwards. He earned the nickname "Coxsone" during his school days due to his cricketing talent. Dodd founded the iconic Studio One record label, where he worked with numerous legendary artists such as Bob Marley, The Skatalites, and Lee "Scratch" Perry. His innovative production techniques and keen ear for talent solidified his reputation as a pioneer in the Jamaican music industry.

Dawn Penn is a Jamaican reggae singer known for her impactful contributions to the music industry. Initially active during the rocksteady era from 1967 to 1969, she gained widespread recognition for her single "You Don't Love Me (No, No, No)", a global hit in 1994. Penn's professional journey showcases her versatility and enduring appeal as an artist, solidifying her reputation as a prominent figure in reggae music. Her continued success and influence highlight her enduring impact on the genre.

Jackie Mittoo was a highly influential Jamaican-Canadian keyboardist, songwriter, and musical director. He was a key member of The Skatalites and played a significant role as the musical director of the renowned Studio One record label. Mittoo was widely recognized for his contributions to Jamaican music and was considered an ambassador of the genre worldwide. His talent and creativity left a lasting legacy in the music industry, and his work continues to be celebrated and remembered by fans and fellow musicians alike.

Byron Lee was a prominent Jamaican musician, record producer, and entrepreneur who made a significant impact in the music industry. He is best known for his role as the leader of Byron Lee and the Dragonaires, a successful band that gained international recognition. Lee's work as a musician and record producer showcased his talent and versatility, allowing him to leave a lasting legacy in the world of music. As an entrepreneur, he demonstrated his ability to navigate the business side of the industry successfully.

Mr. Vegas is a prominent Jamaican dancehall singjay known for his energetic performances and catchy music. With a career spanning several decades, he has released numerous hit songs and albums that have gained international acclaim. Mr. Vegas is recognized for his versatile style, blending traditional dancehall rhythms with elements of reggae and pop music. He has collaborated with various artists and producers, further solidifying his status as a respected figure in the music industry.

Lee "Scratch" Perry was a Jamaican record producer, composer, and singer renowned for his groundbreaking studio techniques and production style. He played a pivotal role in the evolution of dub music during the 1970s by introducing remixing and studio effects to create innovative versions of existing reggae tracks. Perry collaborated with a diverse range of artists, including Bob Marley and the Wailers, Junior Murvin, The Congos, Max Romeo, The Clash, Beastie Boys, and The Orb. His influence extended across genres, solidifying his legacy as a true music pioneer.

Robbie Shakespeare was a highly influential Jamaican bass guitarist and record producer known for his work as half of the reggae duo Sly and Robbie with drummer Sly Dunbar. Renowned for his innovative use of electronics and production effects units, he earned the nickname "Basspeare." Throughout his career, Shakespeare collaborated with a wide range of reggae artists and expanded his production work to include pop and rock musicians. His contributions extended to session groups like the Revolutionaries and the Aggrovators.

Carlton Barrett was a Jamaican musician renowned as the longtime drummer for Bob Marley & The Wailers. He gained fame for his innovative drumming style, characterized by a distinctive broken triplet pattern on the hi-hat and dynamic drum intros. Barrett played a key role in popularizing the One Drop rhythm and worked with various artists, including Bunny Wailer and Peter Tosh. Tragically, he was fatally shot outside his home in Kingston, Jamaica, in 1987.

Elephant Man, a Jamaican dancehall musician, rose to fame as a member of the dancehall group Scare Dem Crew before embarking on a successful solo career. Known for his energetic performances and unique vocal style, he has become a prominent figure in the dancehall music scene. Elephant Man has released numerous hit songs and collaborated with various artists, solidifying his status as a influential and respected artist in the industry. His music continues to captivate audiences worldwide with its infectious rhythms and catchy lyrics.

Mikey Dread was a prominent figure in the world of reggae music, known for his contributions as a singer, producer, and broadcaster. He played a significant role in shaping the genre with his innovative approach to music. He was highly regarded for his distinctive style and his ability to blend traditional reggae sounds with modern influences. Mikey Dread's professional career was marked by his influence on the reggae scene and his lasting impact on the industry as a whole.

Prince Buster was a Jamaican singer-songwriter and producer who made a significant impact on Jamaican contemporary music in the 1960s. His influential records shaped the course of reggae and ska music, leaving behind a lasting legacy for future artists to draw inspiration from. With his innovative approach to music production and songwriting, Prince Buster established himself as a key figure in the development of these genres, cementing his place in the history of Jamaican music.

Jepther McClymont, known professionally as Luciano, is a renowned Jamaican roots reggae singer. With a career spanning several decades, he has established himself as a prominent figure in the reggae music scene. Luciano's powerful and soulful vocals, combined with his socially conscious lyrics, have earned him international acclaim. He is known for promoting positive messages of love, unity, and spirituality through his music. Luciano's contributions to the genre have solidified his reputation as a talented and influential artist in the world of reggae music.

Barrington Levy is a highly influential Jamaican reggae and dancehall artist renowned for his distinctive vocal style and energetic performances. He rose to prominence in the late 1970s and early 1980s with hit songs like "Under Mi Sensi" and "Here I Come," which helped solidify his reputation as a leading figure in the reggae music scene. Levy's career has been marked by numerous collaborations with other artists and producers, showcasing his versatility and enduring appeal to audiences worldwide.

Busy Signal is a prominent Jamaican dancehall reggae artist known for his energetic performances and captivating music. With a successful career spanning over two decades, he has released numerous hit songs that have resonated with audiences worldwide. Busy Signal is recognized for his versatile style, seamlessly blending elements of dancehall, reggae, and other genres to create a unique sound. He has collaborated with various artists and producers, establishing himself as a respected figure in the music industry and a dynamic performer on the global stage.

Aston Francis Barrett, known as "Family Man" or "Fams," was a prominent Jamaican musician and Rastafarian. He gained recognition as the bandleader of Bob Marley's backing band, contributing significantly to the sound and success of Marley's music. Barrett was also involved in co-producing Marley's albums and overseeing the overall song arrangements, showcasing his talent and expertise in music production. His professional career was marked by his instrumental role in shaping the reggae genre and his enduring legacy in the music industry.

Eek-A-Mouse is a Jamaican reggae musician known for being one of the earliest artists to be described as a "singjay." He is recognized for pioneering his unique style of scatting, setting him apart from other toasting deejays in the 80s. Eek-A-Mouse has made significant contributions to the reggae music scene with his innovative approach to blending singing and deejaying. His distinct sound and lyrical delivery have solidified his reputation as a trailblazer in the genre, earning him a dedicated global following.

Lloyd Knibb was a Jamaican drummer known for his mastery of percussion across various musical genres, including jazz, mento, burru, and reggae. He made significant contributions to the development of ska rhythm and played with influential bands like The Skatalites and Tommy McCook & The Supersonics. Knibb worked with renowned producers like Lloyd "Matador" Daley and Duke Reid, leaving his mark on Jamaican music history. His technical proficiency and diverse styles led to collaborations with major figures in ska and recognition through awards and inductions into music hall of fame.

Lloyd Grant is a Jamaican guitarist known for his association with the popular American heavy metal band Metallica, despite not being an official member. He gained recognition for his contribution to the original version of the band's first single. Grant's professional life revolves around his notable role in the music industry, showcasing his talent and skill as a guitarist. He has left a lasting impact through his work with Metallica, solidifying his place in the history of heavy metal music.

Alborosie, born Alberto D'Ascola, is a prominent Italian reggae artist known for his contributions to the reggae music scene. With a stage name that has become synonymous with his talent, he is often recognized as the "Italian Reggae Ambassador." Alborosie has made a significant impact on the music industry through his unique sound and powerful lyrics. His professional journey is marked by successful albums, collaborations with renowned artists, and a dedicated fan base worldwide.

Lady Saw, also known as Marion Hall, is a Jamaican singer and songwriter with a career spanning over 3 decades. She was formerly known as the Queen of Dancehall, a title now held by Spice. Lady Saw gained significant recognition for her guest appearance on No Doubt's "Underneath It All," which achieved triple Platinum status and earned a Grammy for No Doubt. Her contributions to the music industry have solidified her as a prominent figure in the dancehall genre.

Dobby Dobson was a renowned Jamaican reggae singer and record producer known for his hit song "The Loving Pauper." His career was marked by his distinctive voice and heartfelt performances, earning him a reputation as a standout artist in the reggae music scene. Dobson's work as a record producer further solidified his influence, as he played a significant role in shaping the sound and direction of reggae music during his time in the industry.

Justin Hinds was a Jamaican ska and conscious roots reggae vocalist known for his work with Duke Reid's Treasure Isle Records. His most notable song, "Carry Go Bring Come," reached number one in Jamaica. Hinds recorded seventy singles between 1964 and 1966 and was the most popular artist on the record label. With his backing singers, the Dominoes, he made significant contributions to the music scene, showcasing his talent and leaving a lasting impact on the ska and reggae genres.

Joseph Hill was a prominent figure in the reggae music scene as the lead singer and songwriter for the roots reggae group Culture. He gained recognition for their hit songs "Two Sevens Clash" and "International Herb". Hill's career spanned over two decades, during which he recorded a total of twenty-two albums with Culture. His music reflected themes of social consciousness and spirituality, earning him a reputation as a respected artist in the reggae genre. Hill's contributions to reggae music continue to be celebrated and remembered by fans worldwide.

Tami Chynn is a multi-talented Jamaican artist known for her skills as a singer, songwriter, and dancer. With a successful career in the music industry, she has captivated audiences with her powerful vocals and captivating performances. Through her work, Tami has established herself as a versatile and dynamic artist, known for her ability to blend various musical styles and create unique sounds. Her contributions to the music world have earned her a strong reputation as a talented and influential figure in the industry.

Sonny Bradshaw CD was a prominent figure in Jamaican music for over six decades, renowned as the "dean of Jamaican music" and the "musician's musician." He was a bandleader, trumpeter, broadcaster, and promoter, leaving a lasting impact on the music scene. Bradshaw was highly respected for his musical talent and leadership skills, earning a reputation as a key influencer in Jamaican music. His contributions to the industry were significant, cementing his legacy as an iconic figure in the history of Jamaican music.

Coleridge Goode was a British Jamaican-born jazz bassist who is best known for his extensive collaboration with alto saxophonist Joe Harriott. He was a key member of Harriott's jazz quintet for eight years, contributing to the group's innovative sound and style. Goode also played a significant role in Harriott's groundbreaking fusion of jazz and Indian music in the group Indo-Jazz Fusions, co-led by composer and violinist John Mayer. Throughout his professional career, Goode demonstrated exceptional skill and versatility as a bassist, leaving a lasting impact on the jazz music scene.

Barry Llewellyn was a Jamaican singer known for his pivotal role as a founding member of the legendary rocksteady and reggae vocal trio, The Heptones. Throughout the 1960s and 1970s, he achieved great success and popularity as part of the group. Llewellyn's contributions to music were highly influential, with many of the trio's songs becoming classics that have been re-recorded by numerous artists in subsequent generations. His professional life was marked by a legacy of timeless music and a significant impact on the reggae genre.