Reggae has its roots in a combination of traditional African rhythms, American rhythm and blues and indigenous Jamaican folk music.

Coming to prominence in the early 1960's, the music and its rhythms were comprised of elements of American rhythm and blues, soul, and rock being heard on local radio stations and in dance halls; Afro-Caribbean rhythms (calypso, merengue, rhumba); and a folk music style called mento, which was rich in African heritage. Early forms of reggae (ska, rocksteady), reflected stronger influences from African-American music.

Contemporary reggae draws from Rastafarian ritual drumming, chanting, and mysticism, thus slowing down the tempo and giving emphasis to the music’s social, political, and humanistic messages.

Reggae has transcended into many forms now, and its influence can easily be seen in the forefront of the commercial arena in a variety of music. However, grassroots Reggae music is marginalised, as are the producers of the music.

Jaeworld is committed to the promotion of real Reggae music and its exponents, and hopes to reach the consciousness of all good music lovers. Jaeworld interviews some British based artists in the first of its profiles of fine Reggae musicians.

Coming soon to Jaeworld, The Black Survivors - Profile of a reggae band

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