Jamaican music & art is appreciated the world over. Bob Marley and Peter Tosh stand out as shining
examples of what can be achieved through commitments. Many other musicians and artists have done
their parts to help establish a worldwide appeal for Jamaican cultural expression.
Jamaica is the birthplace of reggae. Reggae has been transformed from a popular Jamaican music form to an internationally established popular music genre.
The music evolved from African slave music which became Mento, Ska and then Rocksteady. Reggae was also influenced by Rhythm & Blues as well as (you might be surprised) Country and Western music.
The influence of Bob Marley on the music has been immense. Bob Marley (who is a member of the Rock N Roll Hall of Fame) did more to popularise reggae internationally than any other artiste. Interest in Bob Marley and his music has remained intense since his death from cancer in 1981.
Bob lives on through his numerous children, many of whom have inherited his great musical talent. Ziggy Marley & the Melody Makers are comprised of four of Bob's children from his marriage to Rita. Ziggy, Stephen, Cedella and Sharon make up the hit spining, grammy winning Reggae quartet. Other talented Marley children include Kymani, Julian and Damian (Junior Gong).
Apart from Bob Marley, other Reggae Stalwarts include, Jimmy Cliff, Peter Tosh, Toots Hibbert (from Toots and the Maytals), Jacob Miller and Bunny Wailer.
On our next page you will find a Jamaica recipe for you to try, some things to think about, and the link to the next Island we are going to visit.
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