From Bob Marley To Michael Jackson
When most think of reggae music Bob Marley is the first thing that comes to mind. It is true that he is one of the most prominent artists in the world of reggae music, but there are many other artists that are still keeping the torch lit.The Marley family is still producing reggae sounds, but there are many other artists that are coming into the spotlight. Reggae sounds have even penetrated mainstream R&B sounds. Pop artists like The Police even used Reggae music early in their career to give their tunes a unique sound. It should come as no surprise that the popularity of this form of music is still growing. A large part of the reggae cultural growth is now tired to hip-hop music industry. Many DJs that make mix tapes do blends that incorporate both popular reggae beats with popular R&B songs. This is a large part of the underground hip-hop culture that is reaching so many youths. Reggae music was once considered a gritty art form that was reserved for the urban community. The irony is that the reggae culture is reaching outside of the urban community. Popular artists like Colbie Calliat are obviously influenced by reggae music. Bruno Mars and Rihanna are also showing the love for reggae on some of their current tunes.Reggae music is a mellow fusion of Afro-centric jazz, funk, and rhythm and blues sounds. The Jamaican culture is infused in this music that inspires sensual body movement. Dub beats are thick and infectious for the people that swarm to the dance floor for reggae tracks.The music can be fun at times. It can be sensual at others. It’s a great melting pot of melodies that all come together with the intention of making people feel something. Bob Marley was great at making people feel something. Fans refer to him as the reggae music originator, but this isn’t exactly true. Reggae music was around before Marley came into existence. It was the Bob Marley sound, however, that gave reggae music a worldwide stage. There isn’t a fan of reggae music anywhere that has not heard a Bob Marley song. He is to reggae what Michael Jackson is to pop music. Both are legends that left a lasting legacy that continues to grow. Marley became a legend because it his music covered so many areas. He could be playful and witty at the same time. He could also use his music to make a political statement. Marley could talk about love and the lost of love. The genius of Marley was his ability to make people dance in the midst of all of these different emotions.
