Topping the Charts
The growth of British reggae and ska acts up to the early 1980s marked a significant and transformative period, with notable acts like UB40 and Madness becoming a regular feature at the top of the charts.
These achievements played a crucial role in solidifying reggae and ska within the fabric of British popular culture.
However, as the 1980s progressed, the mainstream popularity of these genres started to fade. Nevertheless, reggae and ska continued to evolve and thrive within the underground and independent music scenes. Throughout subsequent decades, reggae resurfaced in various forms.
British Reggae Today
The current British reggae scene reflects a diverse range of artists, styles, and influences that range from dub to drum and bass, encompassing the exploration of new sounds while accommodating traditional reggae elements.
Musicians like Kiko Bun, Hollie Cook, and The Skints and The Hempolics, continue to innovate pushing the boundaries of the genre, with a new generation of soundsystem operators playing the music.
From the recording studio to the festival stage, the British reggae scene is a testament to the enduring legacies of ska, reggae and dub accommodating both contemporary and legacy acts like Janet Kay, Carroll Thomson, UB40, David Rodigan, Gentleman’s Dub Club, Mungo’s Hi Fi and Lord Gellys Soundsystem.
These artists and groups, among others, have been essential in reshaping contemporary British reggae. Consequently, their relevance in the black British music scene stems not only from their ability to innovate and push the boundaries of the genre but staying true to its roots
DJ Kool Herc (2006) by Rock & Roll Hall of FameRock & Roll Hall of Fame
Their contributions have enriched British reggae and contributed to the broader landscape of British popular music. The seeds of Jamaican music had been sewn, and the current wave of artists and groups are the fruits.
The impact of reggae
From the arrival of Caribbean migrants in the late 40s, Jamaican popular music became a tool for identity formation and expression among black British communities, and by the late 1960s, two white British youth and subcultures, such as the mods and skinheads.
However, the multicultural nature of this influence has not always been easy, as often it’s been hampered by tensions and struggles around ethnicity and identity.
Philmore "Boots" Davidson (1975/1975) by Chris Steele-PerkinsNotting Hill Carnival
Nonetheless, the ability to blend Jamaican popular music with British influences has confronted social and politica issues while connecting with diverse audiences.
Bob Marley live during the Kaya Tour (1978)Bob Marley: Legend
From artists like Millie Small, Desmond Dekker, Bob Marley, among others, the baton was handed to British artists, such as Steel Pulse, Janet Kay, The Specials, and UB40, who have continued to address issues of social justice and marginalized communities.
Notting Hill Carnival Mas (2018/2018) by Getty ImagesNotting Hill Carnival
Today, from festivals like the Notting Hill Carnival to Glastonbury, their powerful conscious messages have given voice to the experiences and struggles of black and white British youth, fostering a sense of cultural pride, empowerment and unity.
Bob Marley and the I Three Live at the Rainbow Theater, London (1977-06-01)Bob Marley: Legend
As such, the legacy of the British reggae scene is reflected in its continued popularity and its role in shaping British popular music.
