Jamaica celebrates Reggae Month this February with tributes to the pioneers who shaped the genre and brought it to international prominence. Their contributions remain central to reggae’s influence worldwide.

The month was formally established on January 9, 2008, to honour the impact of reggae music on Jamaica’s social, cultural and economic development.

Here are some notable figures in reggae who are considered founding fathers and torch-bearers of the genre and Jamaica’s brand.

Bob Marley (1945–1981)

Bob Marley was instrumental in bringing reggae to international acclaim. As the lead singer of The Wailers, his music carried messages of unity and social change. Songs such as ‘One Love‘, ‘No Woman, No Cry‘, ‘Babylon System‘ and ‘Redemption Song‘ remain some of the most recognisable in the genre.

Peter Tosh (1944–1987)

Tosh was known for his outspoken advocacy and militant style. A founding member of The Wailers, he later pursued a solo career, producing songs such as ‘Equal Rights‘, ‘Legalize It‘, and ‘Stepping Razor‘.

Bunny Wailer (1947–2021)

Another founding member of The Wailers focused on preserving the spiritual essence of reggae. His solo albums, including ‘Blackheart Man‘ and ‘Protest‘, are regarded as reggae classics.

Dennis Brown (1957–1999)

Dennis Brown often called the ‘Crown Prince of Reggae,’ was known for his smooth vocals and extensive catalogue. Songs such as ‘Here I Come‘, ‘Revolution‘ and ‘Love Has Found Its Way‘ remain staples in reggae music.

Toots Hibbert (1942–2020)

Frederick ‘Toots’ Hibbert and his band, Toots and the Maytals, were among the first to popularise the word “reggae” through their 1968 song ‘Do the Reggay‘. His energetic performances and hits such as ‘Pressure Drop‘, ‘Sweet and Dandy‘, and ‘Monkey Man‘ cemented his legacy in Jamaica’s reggae history.

Gregory Isaacs (1951–2010)

Gregory Isaacs known as the “Cool Ruler,” was one of the leading voices in lovers’ rock. Songs like ‘Night Nurse‘, ‘My Only Lover‘, and ‘Rumours‘ showcased his distinctive vocal style.

Burning Spear (born 1945)

Burning Spear whose real name is Winston Rodney, has been a key figure in roots reggae. Strongly influenced by the teachings of Marcus Garvey, he released albums such as ‘Marcus Garvey‘ and ‘Hail H.I.M‘.

Rita Marley (born 1946)

Rita Marley played an integral role in reggae’s development as a member of the I-Threes and as a solo artiste. She was a strong advocate for preserving Bob Marley’s legacy and promoting African unity. Songs such as ‘One Draw‘, ‘Harambe‘, and ‘Who Feels It Knows It‘ highlight her contributions to reggae and Rastafarian culture.

Joseph Hill (1949–2006)

As the lead singer of Culture was known for his socially conscious lyrics. The group’s album ‘Two Sevens Clash‘ and songs such as ‘Jah Jah See Dem a Come‘ and ‘Zion Gate‘ are regarded as reggae anthems.

Beres Hammond (born 1955)

Hammond is one of reggae’s most enduring voices. Known for his lovers’ rock sound, his songs include ‘Rockaway‘, ‘What One Dance Can Do‘, and ‘Step Aside‘.

Jimmy Cliff (born 1944)

Cliff gained international recognition through his role in ‘The Harder They Come‘, a film that introduced reggae to a global audience. Songs such as ‘Many Rivers to Cross‘, ‘You Can Get It If You Really Want‘, and ‘The Harder They Come‘ remain among his most notable musical anthems.

Marcia Griffiths (born 1949)

Marcia Griffiths is regarded as the ‘Queen of Reggae.’ In addition to her solo career, she was a member of the I-Threes, Bob Marley’s backing trio. Songs such as ‘Electric Boogie‘, ‘Dreamland‘, and ‘Steppin’ Out of Babylon‘ have influenced her place among reggae’s most important figures.

As Reggae Month begins, Jamaica celebrates the massive impact of these artistes and their contributions to the genre from its inception in the late 1940s.