Any casual fan of reggae music, or
a fan of music in general, will receive great wisdom and knowledge
into the background of Jamaican music in the latest publication from
the BBC “Reggae: The Story of Jamaican Music” by Lloyd Bradley.
Jamaican music is somewhat of a
mystery. While popularly known as strictly the island that exports
reggae, along with good vibes and good feelings, the diverse
circumstances and remarkable music which the island has produce is
generally not as well known.
Mr. Bradley gives an incredibly detailed and researched
account of the evolution of Jamaican musical output in his book
“Reggae: The Story of Jamaican Music”. From the foundation of Ska
shortly after Independence from Britain in 1962, to the current craze
of dancehall upon the pop charts in America, Mr. Bradley gives the
reader a clear, concise and easily readable history of the island’s
best known export.
Paying attention to some of the
broader developments throughout the history, Mr. Bradley expands on
the importance of DeeJays and the Soundsystem, Toasters such as U Roy,
and the contributions made within those segments of the evolution.
The importance of international exposure by Bob Marley is included,
and chapters dedicated to topics such as cultural time, ragamuffins,
Great Britain, and the modern return to roots offer additional insight
into the diverse evolution of the music.
Along with the detailed
chronicling of the remarkable rise of a small island on the world
music stage, the book includes spectacular photos taken by Dennis
Morris which depicts the beautiful nature which Jamaica and its music
offers to the world.
Also included at the end of each
chapter are interviews with artists and influences upon the music,
which adds value and personality to the text.
Lloyd Bradley’s book “Reggae: The
Story of Jamaican Music” is a book which any music enthusiast should
read and understand. Clear and concise, it is a value to any reader
looking to learn more about the dynamics behind reggae music and the
remarkable musical history of a small island in the Caribbean.
Larry Leiber
The Reggae Movement
