As we usher in February and celebrate Reggae Month, it’s the perfect time to honor the musical legends who have shaped reggae into a globally revered genre.
From its roots in Jamaica to its worldwide influence, reggae continues to inspire, uplift, and unify. Here’s a spotlight on five trailblazing icons from the past and five modern artists who carry the torch forward.
Reggae legends of the past
- Bob Marley
No list of reggae legends is complete without Bob Marley, the King of Reggae. With timeless hits like “One Love,” “No Woman, No Cry,” and “Redemption Song,” Marley became reggae’s global ambassador, blending messages of unity, resistance, and spirituality. Inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1994, Marley’s compilation album Legend remains one of the best-selling reggae albums of all time, spending over 1,000 weeks on the Billboard charts. - Peter Tosh
Peter Tosh was not only a founding member of The Wailers but also a Grammy Award winner for Best Reggae Album in 1987 with No Nuclear War. Known for his fearless activism, Tosh’s “Legalize It” became an anthem for marijuana legalization worldwide. In 2012, he was posthumously awarded Jamaica’s Order of Merit, one of the country’s highest honors. - Dennis Brown
Dubbed the “Crown Prince of Reggae,” Dennis Brown’s career included over 75 albums and a posthumous national award, the Order of Distinction, Commander Class in 2011. His hit “Money in My Pocket” became an international success, charting in the UK and cementing his legacy as one of the genre’s most prolific and soulful voices. - Gregory Isaacs
The “Cool Ruler” captivated fans with his romantic style and iconic songs like “Night Nurse.” Gregory Isaacs released over 500 albums during his career, earning four Grammy nominations. His influence continues to resonate with lovers’ rock enthusiasts worldwide. - Toots Hibbert
Toots Hibbert, frontman of Toots and the Maytals, is credited with coining the term “reggae” with their 1968 hit “Do the Reggay.” Toots and his band won the Grammy for Best Reggae Album in 2005 with True Love. His legendary track “Pressure Drop” is a staple of reggae music and was famously featured in the film The Harder They Come. In 2012, he received the Order of Jamaica, the country’s fifth-highest honor.
Icons of today
- Chronixx
As a leading voice in the reggae revival movement, Chronixx blends traditional roots with modern influences. His 2017 debut album, Chronology, earned a Grammy nomination for Best Reggae Album, featuring hits like “Smile Jamaica” and “Likes.” Chronixx has performed on global stages, including Coachella and Glastonbury, showcasing the genre’s enduring appeal. - Protoje
Known for his thought-provoking lyrics, Protoje has been instrumental in shaping modern reggae. His fourth album, A Matter of Time, earned a Grammy nomination for Best Reggae Album in 2018. Protoje’s collaboration with Chronixx on “Who Knows” became a massive hit, solidifying his role as a key figure in Jamaican music. - Koffee
At just 19 years old, Koffee became the youngest and first female artist to win the Grammy for Best Reggae Album with Rapture in 2020. Her breakout hit “Toast” skyrocketed her to global fame, earning her performances at major events like the Super Bowl pre-show. Her song “Lockdown” debuted at number one on the Billboard Reggae Charts. - Lila Iké
Lila Iké’s soulful voice and conscious lyrics have quickly made her one of the genre’s rising stars. Her debut EP, The ExPerience, released in 2020, showcased tracks like “Second Chance” and “I Spy.” A protégé of Protoje, Lila is a key part of the In.Digg.Nation Collective, which continues to redefine reggae for a modern audience. - Kabaka Pyramid
Kabaka Pyramid’s conscious lyrics and revolutionary spirit have drawn comparisons to legends like Peter Tosh. In 2023, he won the Grammy for Best Reggae Album with The Kalling, a collaboration with Damian Marley. His tracks like “Kontraband” highlight his dedication to social change and preserving the genre’s roots.
Reggae’s enduring appeal lies in its ability to evolve while staying true to its roots. From Bob Marley’s universal anthems to Koffee’s modern hits, the genre continues to be a voice for the oppressed and a call for unity and love. As we celebrate Reggae Month, let’s honor the past while embracing the future of this powerful genre.
