The Most Famous Reggae Artist, Ranked

Choose the reggae artist you think is the most famous!

Author: Gregor Krambs
Updated on May 4, 2024 07:12
The vibrant beats of reggae music have resonated across the globe, influencing countless listeners and musicians alike. Knowing which artist stands out in this beloved genre can be a subjective debate filled with personal favorites and varied musical tastes. Ranking the most famous reggae artists helps fans to see which musicians are currently capturing the hearts of their fellow listeners. By participating in the rankings, fans contribute their voice to a collective celebration of reggae music. This process not only highlights the artists who are making significant impacts today but also introduces newcomers to the influential figures of the genre. Each vote helps ensure that the list remains dynamic and reflective of the community's preferences.

Who Is the Most Famous Reggae Artist?

  1. 1
    31
    votes
    Bob Marley is considered the king of reggae, Bob Marley's music and message have made him a global icon. His songs like "No Woman No Cry" and "One Love" have become anthems of unity and love.
    Bob Marley in other rankings
  2. 2
    24
    votes
    Peter Tosh
    TimDuncan · CC BY 3.0
    Peter Tosh is a founding member of The Wailers, Peter Tosh's music was known for its political and social commentary. His song "Legalize It" was a call for the decriminalization of marijuana.
    Peter Tosh in other rankings
  3. 3
    23
    votes
    Jimmy Cliff is a Jamaican singer and actor, Jimmy Cliff's music has been credited with popularizing reggae in the United States. His song "The Harder They Come" was featured in the film of the same name.
    Jimmy Cliff in other rankings
  4. 4
    16
    votes
    Toots and the Maytals
    Michig · CC BY-SA 3.0
    Toots and the Maytals is a Jamaican group that helped popularize reggae in the 1960s and 1970s. Their hits include "Pressure Drop" and "54-46 That's My Number".
  5. 5
    9
    votes
    Burning Spear
    Sonia Rodney · CC BY-SA 3.0
    Burning Spear is a Jamaican roots reggae singer, Burning Spear's music has been known for its political and spiritual themes. His song "Slavery Days" is a powerful reflection on the legacy of colonialism.
    Burning Spear in other rankings
  6. 6
    1
    votes
    Gregory Isaacs is a Jamaican reggae musician known for his smooth vocal style, Gregory Isaacs' songs often dealt with themes of love and heartbreak. His hit "Night Nurse" is a classic of the genre.
  7. 7
    10
    votes
    Steel Pulse
    Krd · CC BY-SA 4.0
    Steel Pulse is a British reggae band known for their socially conscious lyrics, Steel Pulse's music often addresses issues of racism and injustice. Their album "True Democracy" is considered a classic of the genre.
  8. 8
    14
    votes
    Bunny Wailer is a founding member of The Wailers, Bunny Wailer's music has been known for its spiritual and political themes. His song "Blackheart Man" is considered a classic of the genre.
    Bunny Wailer in other rankings
  9. 9
    2
    votes
    Max Romeo
    Alexmarzea1 · CC BY-SA 4.0
    Max Romeo is a Jamaican reggae singer known for his politically charged lyrics, Max Romeo's song "War Ina Babylon" is a powerful indictment of the violence and corruption in Jamaica.
  10. 10
    11
    votes
    Desmond Dekker is a Jamaican singer known for his pioneering work in the ska and rocksteady genres, Desmond Dekker's song "Israelites" was a massive hit in the United Kingdom in the 1960s.

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Ranking factors for famous reggae artist

  1. Influence
    The level of influence an artist has had on other reggae musicians, as well as on the genre itself, is an important factor. Artists who have pioneered new sounds, styles, or lyrical themes, and have had a lasting impact, should be considered.
  2. Career Success
    This includes factors such as record sales, chart success, and longevity in the industry. Artists who have achieved widespread commercial success and have had consistent careers over an extended period of time should be recognized.
  3. Cultural Impact
    The extent to which an artist has transcended boundaries and reached a global audience is crucial. Artists who have introduced reggae music to new audiences, broke cultural barriers, and became ambassadors for the genre should be acknowledged.
  4. Awards and Recognition
    Awards won, nominations received, and recognition from industry peers and critics can be indicative of an artist's talent and influence. Artists who have been recognized with prestigious accolades should be considered.
  5. Legacy
    The lasting impact an artist has on the reggae genre and the music industry as a whole should not be overlooked. Artists who have left a significant mark and have inspired future generations of musicians should be ranked highly.

About this ranking

This is a community-based ranking of the most famous reggae artist. We do our best to provide fair voting, but it is not intended to be exhaustive. So if you notice something or reggae artist is missing, feel free to help improve the ranking!

Statistics

  • 1181 views
  • 140 votes
  • 10 ranked items

Voting Rules

A participant may cast an up or down vote for each reggae artist once every 24 hours. The rank of each reggae artist is then calculated from the weighted sum of all up and down votes.

More information on most famous reggae artist

Reggae music originated in Jamaica in the late 1960s and quickly gained popularity worldwide due to its unique sound and powerful lyrics. The genre is known for its use of strong basslines and off-beat rhythms, which create a distinct and vibrant sound that has influenced countless musicians across the globe. Reggae music has produced many great artists over the years, but when it comes to the most famous reggae artist, one name stands out above the rest - Bob Marley. Marley's music and message of love, peace, and unity have resonated with people all over the world, making him an icon of the genre. However, there are many other talented reggae artists who have made significant contributions to the genre, including Peter Tosh, Jimmy Cliff, and Toots and the Maytals. Each of these artists has their own unique style and sound, but they all share a passion for reggae music and a commitment to spreading its message of love and unity.

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