List of Reggae Songs with the All-Time Greatest Hits

The moment a reggae bassline drops, syncopated and insistent, it’s instantly recognizable. It’s a rhythm that has vibrated from the shores of Jamaica across continents, carrying tales of struggle, love, and unity. For anyone looking to truly understand the heartbeat of this genre, diving into a definitive list of reggae songs that have captivated audiences worldwide is an essential journey. These tracks aren't just melodies; they are cultural touchstones, rhythmic innovations, and powerful statements that continue to resonate.

At a Glance: Essential Insights for Your Reggae Journey

• Discover foundational hits: Pinpoint the tracks that propelled reggae from local sensation to global phenomenon.
• Unpack genre evolution: Trace how ska and rocksteady paved the way for roots reggae, lovers' rock, and dancehall-infused pop.
• Identify barrier-breaking artists: Learn about the pioneers who topped charts and defied expectations.
• Appreciate lyrical depth: Understand how songs blend social commentary, political advocacy, and heartfelt emotion.
• Explore crossover success: See how reggae's influence permeated mainstream pop and rock.

The Genesis of a Global Rhythm: A Brief Overview

Reggae burst forth from Jamaica in the late 1960s, quickly distinguished by its iconic off-beat rhythm, often dubbed the "skank." More than just a musical style, it became a powerful vehicle for social and political commentary, often inspired by the Rastafari faith, while also giving rise to the romantic 'lovers' rock' subgenre. Before reggae, rocksteady, with its slower tempo and heavy bassline, served as a crucial bridge from the faster ska sounds of the early 1960s, laying down the rhythmic groundwork for what was to come. Its influence quickly spread, shaping countless musical styles and proving that a small island could create a sound that captivated the world.

The Groundbreakers: Ska and Rocksteady Paving the Way

Before "reggae" became a household name, earlier Jamaican genres laid the groundwork. Ska, with its upbeat tempo, and rocksteady, a smoother, more soulful iteration, produced some of the earliest international hits that hinted at the genre's immense potential. These tracks introduced the world to the unique Jamaican sound.

• Millie Small – 'My Boy Lollipop' (1964): This effervescent ska track, a cover of a 1956 R&B song, was a monumental success, selling over seven million copies. As the first major hit for Island Records, it launched Millie Small, then just 17, into global stardom and proved the international appeal of Jamaican music.
• Desmond Dekker and the Aces – 'Israelites' (1969): A quintessential ska/reggae hybrid, 'Israelites' became the first UK reggae number one and a top ten hit in the US. Written by Dekker and Leslie Kong, its distinctive sound and universal lyrical themes of struggle resonated widely.
• The Paragons – 'The Tide is High' (1967): This classic rocksteady song, penned by John Holt, showcased the genre's smooth, romantic side. While an original Jamaican hit, it found renewed global fame when Blondie covered it in 1980, topping charts on both sides of the Atlantic.
• Jimmy Cliff – 'You Can Get It If You Really Want' (1970): Written and first performed by the legendary Jimmy Cliff, this uplifting anthem later became a hit for Desmond Dekker, reaching number two in the UK. Its message of perseverance even resonated politically, being adopted by Nicaragua's Sandinista National Liberation Front.

The Architects of Roots Reggae: Voices of a Generation

The 1970s saw the emergence of roots reggae, a spiritual and often politically charged form that became synonymous with Jamaica’s global identity. Artists like Bob Marley, Peter Tosh, and Toots Hibbert championed social justice, Rastafari ideals, and messages of unity, cementing reggae's place in music history.

• Bob Marley & The Wailers – 'Get Up Stand Up' (1973): Co-written by Bob Marley and Peter Tosh, this powerful anthem from Burnin' was inspired by Marley’s visit to Haiti and Rastafari beliefs. It became a global rallying cry for human rights and liberation.
• Bob Marley & The Wailers – 'I Shot the Sheriff' (1973): Featured on Burnin', this track tells the story from the perspective of a man who killed a corrupt sheriff. It gained even wider recognition when Eric Clapton's cover became his only solo number-one single in the US.
• Peter Tosh – 'Legalize It' (1976): As the title track of his debut solo album after leaving The Wailers, this song boldly advocated for the legalization of cannabis, inspired by Tosh's Rastafari faith. Its controversial stance led to its immediate ban in Jamaica.
• Toots and the Maytals – 'Pressure Drop' (1969): A timeless classic, this track gained international exposure after being featured prominently on the soundtrack of the pivotal 1972 film The Harder They Come. It showcases Toots Hibbert's incredible vocal power and the Maytals' tight musicianship.
• Junior Murvin – 'Police & Thieves' (1976): This song offered a stark commentary on police brutality and gang wars, capturing the tense social climate of its time. Its raw energy and powerful message inspired The Clash to cover it and Bob Marley to write 'Punky Reggae Party'.
• The Melodians – 'Rivers of Babylon' (1970): With lyrics adapted from biblical Psalms, this iconic Rastafari song was also featured in The Harder They Come. It achieved massive global fame with Boney M's 1978 disco-reggae cover, becoming one of the UK's all-time best-selling singles.
• Bob Marley & The Wailers – 'No Woman, No Cry' (1974): Though released on Natty Dread, the famous live version from 1975 truly cemented its legendary status. The songwriting credit was notably given to Vincent Ford, ensuring royalties would support his soup kitchen in Kingston, a true act of community support.
• Bob Marley & The Wailers – 'One Love/People Get Ready' (1977): Originally a 1965 ska song, the more celebrated 1977 version from Exodus was retitled to credit Curtis Mayfield for elements of The Impressions' 'People Get Ready'. It remains an enduring anthem of peace and unity.
• Bob Marley & The Wailers – 'Jamming' (1977): From the album Exodus, this track celebrates the joy of communal music-making, with "jamming" referring to a musical session in Jamaican patois. It's an invitation to feel the rhythm and unite.
• Bob Marley & The Wailers – 'Three Little Birds' (1977): Appearing on Exodus and released as a single in 1980, this simple, optimistic song offers comfort and reassurance. Its inspiration is debated, possibly deriving from actual birds or Marley's female backup singers, the "I Threes."
• Bob Marley & The Wailers – 'Is This Love' (1978): The lead single from Kaya, this romantic track is a tender ode to his wife, Rita. It showcases Marley's softer, more personal side, proving reggae's versatility beyond political themes.
• Bob Marley & The Wailers – 'Could You Be Loved' (1980): The first single from his final album, Uprising, this reggae-disco fusion track was reportedly written on an aeroplane in 1979. It blends the infectious reggae rhythm with a danceable groove.
• Bob Marley & The Wailers – 'Redemption Song' (1980): The poignant final track on Uprising, this acoustic masterpiece was written after Marley's cancer diagnosis. Its powerful lyrics, derived from a speech by Marcus Garvey, serve as a timeless call for mental emancipation.
• Bunny Wailer – 'Blackheart Man' (1976): The title track from Bunny Wailer's solo album, featuring collaborators Bob Marley and Peter Tosh, delves into personal topics from Wailer's childhood. It’s a deep dive into the artist’s soul and experiences.
• Bob Marley & The Wailers – 'Buffalo Soldier' (1983): Released posthumously on the album Confrontation, this song tells the story of the black American soldiers who fought in the Indian Wars after 1866, intertwining historical narrative with Rastafari pride.

Lovers' Rock and Crossover Sensations: Reggae's Softer Side and Pop Ascent

The late 70s and 80s saw reggae diversify, giving rise to 'lovers' rock'—a smooth, romantic subgenre—and producing numerous tracks that found massive success in mainstream pop charts, particularly in the UK. These songs proved reggae's versatility and widespread appeal.

• Janet Kay – 'Silly Games' (1979): A quintessential example of the 'lovers' rock' genre, this song reached number two in the UK. It made Janet Kay the first British black female reggae artist to achieve a top 10 hit, a significant milestone.
• Eddy Grant – 'I Don't Wanna Dance' (1982): This infectious reggae-pop track topped the UK singles chart for three weeks, showcasing Grant's distinctive blend of reggae rhythms and mainstream pop sensibilities.
• Boris Gardiner – 'I Want to Wake Up With You' (1986): Gardiner's reggae cover of a Mac Davis country song became a surprising number-one hit in both the UK and Australia. It demonstrated reggae's ability to reinterpret diverse genres successfully.
• Aswad – 'Don't Turn Around' (1988): Aswad's cover of a Tina Turner B-side reached number one in the UK. Their version sampled The Righteous Brothers’ 'You’ve Lost That Lovin’ Feelin’', adding a contemporary touch to a classic.
• Maxi Priest – 'Wild World' (1988): Maxi Priest's smooth reggae cover of the 1970 Cat Stevens song became a significant hit, reaching number five in the UK and number 25 on the US Hot 100. Priest's vocal style made him a leading figure in lovers' rock.
• Aswad – 'Shine' (1994): Remixed by the Beatmasters, this track from their album Rise and Shine reached number five in the UK, becoming Aswad's second-biggest hit. It underscored their continued success in blending reggae with pop.
• Dawn Penn – 'You Don't Love Me (No, No, No)' (1994): This remake of Penn's own 1967 song (itself a cover of Willie Cobbs) became a massive comeback hit. The track reached number three in the UK, showcasing her enduring appeal and a timeless melody.
• China Black – 'Searching' (1994): Originally released in 1992, this British duo's track found widespread success after a re-release, climbing to number four on the UK charts. It's a soulful reggae-pop gem that captivated listeners.

Reggae Pop's Global Takeover: Chart-Topping Hybrids

The 1980s and 90s witnessed reggae's unprecedented integration into global pop music. Artists masterfully fused traditional reggae rhythms with contemporary production, leading to chart dominance and introducing the genre to an even wider audience.

• UB40 – 'Food for Thought' (1980): UB40's debut single from Signing Off peaked at number four in the UK. Its lyrics, inspired by the genocide in Cambodia, marked the band as one with a social conscience, blending political commentary with accessible reggae.
• Musical Youth – 'Pass the Dutchie' (1982): This infectious cover of 'Pass the Kouchie' by Mighty Diamonds famously altered the lyrics to refer to a cooking pot instead of cannabis. It became a global phenomenon, reaching number one in the UK and selling over five million copies worldwide.
• UB40 – 'Red Red Wine' (1983): UB40's reggae cover of Neil Diamond's 1967 song became a massive international hit, topping the UK charts and later reaching number one in the US in 1988. It's one of the most recognizable reggae crossover tracks.
• UB40 – 'Kingston Town' (1990): A cover of Lord Creator's 1970 song, UB40's version reached number four in the UK and topped charts in France and the Netherlands, further cementing their status as global reggae-pop stars.
• Inner Circle – 'Sweat (A La La La La Long)' (1992): Released as the lead single from Bad to the Bone, this catchy track became a global sensation, reaching number one in eight countries, number three in the UK, and number 16 in the US.
• Shaggy – 'Oh Carolina' (1993): Shaggy's cover of the 1958 Folkes Brothers song, featured in the film Sliver, topped the UK charts. It marked the beginning of his rise as a dominant force in reggae fusion.
• Chaka Demus and Pliers – 'Twist and Shout' (1993): This Jamaican duo's dancehall-infused cover of The Isley Brothers' classic, featuring Jack Radics and the Taxi Gang, soared to number one on the UK singles chart, showcasing the vibrant energy of 90s dancehall.
• Bitty McLean – 'It Keeps Raining' (1993): A former UB40 backing vocalist, McLean produced this soulful cover of Fats Domino's 1961 song himself. It was one of his three UK top 10 hits, solidifying his solo career.
• UB40 – 'Can't Help Falling in Love' (1993): UB40's cover of Elvis Presley's iconic 1961 ballad became another massive number-one hit for the band in both the UK and the US, further proving their knack for popular covers.
• Big Mountain – 'Baby I Love Your Way' (1994): This reggae cover of Peter Frampton's 1975 song was featured on the soundtrack for the film Reality Bites and reached number six in the US and number two in the UK, becoming a slow-burning summer hit.
• Pato Banton featuring Ali and Robin Campbell of UB40 – 'Baby Come Back' (1994): A vibrant cover of The Equals' 1968 song, Banton's version reached number one in the UK and was the year's third best-selling single. It's a perfect example of collaborative reggae-pop success.
• Red Dragon featuring Brian and Tony Gold – 'Compliments on Your Kiss' (1994): This jazz-tinged reggae song peaked at number two on the UK singles chart, offering a sophisticated twist on the genre's sound.
• Shaggy – 'Boombastic' (1995): 'Boombastic' became an international smash hit after being prominently featured in a Levi's jeans advertisement. It topped the US R&B and UK Singles charts, reaching number three on the Hot 100, and cementing Shaggy's iconic status.
• Shaggy featuring Rayvon – 'Angel' (2001): Following up on the massive success of 'It Wasn't Me', 'Angel' samples 'The Joker' by Steve Miller Band and 'Angel of the Morning' by Chip Taylor. It reached number one in 12 countries, including the US, UK, and Australia, a testament to Shaggy's global appeal.

Mainstream Artists Embracing Reggae's Rhythm: A Universal Language

Reggae's distinctive rhythm and evocative themes have transcended genre boundaries, inspiring and influencing artists across the musical spectrum. From rock legends to pop icons, many have integrated reggae elements into their sound, demonstrating its universal appeal.

• Johnny Nash – 'I Can See Clearly Now' (1972): Johnny Nash wrote and recorded this upbeat, optimistic song which became a number-one hit in both the US and UK. Its reggae-infused pop sound made it an instant classic, later covered by Jimmy Cliff for the film Cool Runnings.
• Ken Boothe – 'Everything I Own' (1974): Boothe's reggae cover of the 1972 Bread song spent three weeks at number one in the UK, showcasing how reggae could transform contemporary pop hits. Boy George’s later cover also topped the UK charts.
• Althea & Donna – 'Uptown Top Ranking' (1977): Recorded when the singers were just 17 and 18, this track features them ad-libbing over Trinity's 'Three Piece Suit'. It reached number one in the UK, making them the youngest female duo to achieve this, a playful yet impactful reggae statement.
• 10cc – 'Dreadlock Holiday' (1978): This song, penned by Eric Stewart and Graham Gouldman, was famously based on a real-life encounter Stewart and Moody Blues vocalist Justin Hayward had in Barbados. It captures a narrative through a reggae lens, blending humor with the genre's rhythm.
• The Police – 'Roxanne' (1978): A defining track of the reggae-rock genre, Sting wrote this song about a man falling in love with a prostitute, inspired by a visit to Paris’s red-light district. It brilliantly showcases the band's innovative hybrid style.
• Blondie – 'The Tide is High' (1980): Blondie's reggae cover of The Paragons' 1967 rocksteady classic soared to the top of both the UK and US charts. It demonstrated Debbie Harry's versatility and how reggae rhythms could perfectly complement New Wave sensibilities.
• Stevie Wonder – 'Master Blaster (Jammin')' (1980): Released as a heartfelt tribute to Bob Marley, this track from Hotter than July spent five weeks at number one on the US R&B chart. Wonder's joyous ode perfectly captures the spirit of a reggae jam session.
• The Police – 'Walking on the Moon' (1979): The band's second UK number one hit, this track further exemplified their unique reggae/rock/new wave hybrid style, with Sting's distinctive vocals floating over a propulsive bassline and off-beat guitar.
• The Specials – 'Ghost Town' (1981): This iconic 2-Tone ska/reggae track spent three weeks at number one in the UK. Its powerful lyrics unflinchingly addressed urban decay and unemployment, serving as a bleak yet potent social commentary on Thatcherite Britain.
• Bobby McFerrin – 'Don't Worry Be Happy' (1988): While not purely reggae, this uplifting, a cappella tune, with its distinctive vocal bassline, borrows heavily from reggae's feel-good vibe. It made history as the first a cappella song to reach number one in the United States.
• No Doubt featuring Lady Saw – 'Underneath It All' (2002): From their album Rock Steady, this collaboration with dancehall queen Lady Saw, co-written by Gwen Stefani and Eurythmics' Dave Stewart, won a Grammy for Best Pop Performance by a Duo or Group with Vocal, bridging pop and reggae dancehall.
• Bruno Mars – 'The Lazy Song' (2011): From his debut album Doo-Wops & Hooligans, this track borrows heavily from roots reggae, delivering a laid-back, feel-good vibe. It topped the UK chart, demonstrating the enduring appeal of reggae's relaxed rhythms in contemporary pop.

Navigating the Rhythms: A Listener's Guide to Reggae's Hits

Exploring this extensive list of reggae songs can feel like an odyssey, but knowing what to listen for can enhance the experience. The beauty of reggae lies not just in its memorable melodies but in its foundational elements. Pay close attention to the bassline, often described as the "heartbeat" of reggae, driving the rhythm. Notice the "skank" – the guitar or keyboard playing on the off-beat, creating that signature rhythmic push and pull. Most importantly, delve into the lyrics, as many of these songs carry profound messages, historical narratives, or heartfelt emotions that give the music its enduring power.
To truly grasp the breadth of this genre's impact and its historical context, consider how these tracks fit into the broader narrative of Reggae's movement-defining songs. Each hit, whether a protest anthem or a lover’s plea, contributed to a worldwide phenomenon.

Quick Answers: Demystifying Reggae's Enduring Appeal

What is the defining characteristic of reggae music?
Reggae is primarily defined by its distinctive rhythm, which places a strong emphasis on the off-beat, often called the "skank." This creates a laid-back, syncopated feel, with a prominent bassline that drives the groove.
How did reggae influence other music genres?
Reggae's influence is vast, impacting punk (e.g., The Clash, The Police), hip-hop, R&B, pop, and even rock. Its unique rhythms, bass-heavy production, and vocal styles were adopted and adapted, contributing to the development of many modern genres. The "dub" production techniques, in particular, pioneered effects like delay and reverb that became staples in electronic music.
Is all reggae music about social or political issues?
While many iconic reggae songs address social injustice, political oppression, and Rastafari spirituality (often using metaphor and allegory), the genre is incredibly diverse. Subgenres like 'lovers' rock' focus purely on romantic themes, while others celebrate joy, dance, or everyday life.
What is 'lovers' rock' within reggae?
Lovers' rock is a subgenre of reggae that emerged in the UK in the mid-1970s, characterized by its romantic lyrics, smooth vocals, and often slower, more soulful rhythms. It provided a softer, more melodic counterpoint to the more politically charged roots reggae, appealing to a wider audience.
What's the difference between ska, rocksteady, and reggae?
Ska came first (early 1960s), characterized by a fast tempo and a walking bassline, with guitar/piano emphasis on the up-beat. Rocksteady (mid-1960s) slowed down the tempo, emphasized the bassline more, and introduced a smoother, more soulful vocal style. Reggae (late 1960s onwards) further refined the rhythm, developing the signature off-beat guitar chop (skank) and a more complex drum pattern, often focusing on heavier social and political lyrical themes.

Beyond the Horizon: Continuing the Reggae Journey

This list of reggae songs is more than just a collection of hits; it's an invitation to experience a rich cultural tapestry woven with compelling rhythms and profound narratives. From the raw energy of early ska and rocksteady to the global domination of reggae-pop and the soulful depth of roots reggae, each track tells a story. Keep exploring, keep listening to the bassline, and let the infectious rhythm of reggae move you. The journey through reggae's greatest hits is an ongoing education in music, history, and the enduring power of sound to unite and inspire.