Ten Essential Reggae Artists to Know

Like my list of essential Blues artists, here is a list of reggae artists that I feel are "must haves" for any startup reggae collection. If you want to expand your musical knowledge and add a new style to your CD collection, here are a few suggestions in the reggae genre. In no particular order, here are some reggae artists I feel have had much influence in their field.
1. Bob Marley
The most influential reggae artist, known throughout the world. Bob Marley transcended musical influence and was also a social influence in the world.Simple, plaintive tunes that spoke to the masses about oppression, racism, and freedom. "Legend" is a great disc to start with. Dig a little deeper and add "Uprising" and "Rastaman Vibration". There are a lot of interesting books and DVDs about Marley and his influence in reggae and beyond.
2. Black Uhuru
Black Uhuru (Swahili for "Freedom) incorporated modern beats and electronic drums in their sound. They were THE band of the 80s and early 90s. Great songwriting, excellent grooves and an instantly recognizable sound were the trademark of Uhuru. My favorite albums were "Guess Who's Coming to Dinner", "Iron Storm" and "Red". There is an "Ultimate Collection" available as well.
3. Mutabaruka
Dub poet and reggae artist, Muta's words are as great in print as they are to a reggae beat. I recommend "Check It" which was recorded in the early 80s, but still has an urgency for today, as well as his "Greatest Hits" collection that is available. Mutabaruka mixes pain, humor, politics and many other emotions into his raves. Do yourself a favor and check out his stuff.
4. Aswad
My favorite CD is "Hulet" although Aswad has always maintained a great, tight reggae groove filled with excellent musicianship. Aswad has often incorporated smooth R&B influences into their music and have had crossover appeal because of this.
5. Sly and Robbie
Sly and Robbie have appeared on countless reggae recordings over the years. They have also recorded with Bob Dylan and the Rolling Stones. Playing together for many years has allowed them to have a remarkably tight Bass and Drums sound that lays down a thick groove. Having Sly and Robbie on the recording is like the reggae "Good Housekeeping Seal of Approval". You know it is quality stuff. Their own CD "Friends" won a Grammy in 1999.
6. Peter Tosh
Peter Tosh cut his teeth with Bob Marley and the Wailers early on. Going out on his own in the 70's, "Legalize It" was a dangerous, subversive thought, and Peter Tosh had it on his album cover, standing in front of a pile o' weed... Other than that, the recording was excellent and thoughful. This CD is a must for an understanding of reggae back in the day. Powerful stuff. His "No Nuclear War" is another great one, and won the 1988 Grammy for Best Reggae Album. His "Captured Live" album is also a good one.
7. Bunny Wailer
Another Bob Marley and the Wailers graduate, Bunny Wailer was the softer of the reggae sound, producing "Roots" reggae that is thoughtful and soulful. "Blackheart Man" is a great example of his sound and soul. Over the years he has won 3 Grammy awards for Best Reggae Album. "Time Will Tell" was one such CD and was a tribute to Marley.
8. Burning Spear
Nominated for 11 Grammy Awards over the years, Burning Spear has produced consistantly excellent music over the years. Burning Spear hails from the same town as Bob Marley and Marcus Garvey, Spear advocates messages of honesty, peace, and love, along with the religious and political messages of Rastafarianism and black unity. "People of the World", "Resistance" and "Rasta Business" are all excellent, although all of Spear's material is of high quality.
9. Toots and the Maytals
Here is another group that goes all the way back to the beginning of time, or at least seems to. They are as influential as Marley musically although not socially or politically. The group appeared on one of reggae's greatest soundtracks, - "The Harder They Come", a 1972 film starring Jimmy Cliff .On Vanity Fair's Top 10 Best Soundtracks of all time. Their material has even been recorded by The Clash.
10. Jimmy Cliff
Cliff's career took off at age 14 with "Hurricane Hattie". "Hard Road to Travel" was another influential early recording. "Wonderful World, Beautiful People" and "Vietnam" were both well received early material as well. He won a Grammy in 1985 with "Cliff Hanger". He has been active in both reggae and pop music and had many hits. His music has been covered by artists such as Bruce Springsteen and Cliff has collaborated with many pop, rock and R&B artists.

Hope this little guide will get you interested in expanding your musical pallate. Reggae is great soulful music and everyone should have some in their library. Happy Listening!