Jamaican Reggae Icons of the 80s and 90s
The Champions of Reggae Music

Jamaican Reggae Icons of the 80s and 90s | Peter Tosh

by Venesha Johnson | Associate Writer

Even though we do have modern reggae artists, whenever someone requests reggae music the selector would more than likely dive for the Jamaican reggae icons of the 80s and 90s. 

The 1980s and 1990s marked a golden era for reggae, this is era that many of our all favourite reggae artists rose to stardom.

Peter Tosh

As a founding member of The Wailers alongside Bob Marley and Bunny Wailer, Peter Tosh's solo career in the 80s and 90s took off and showcased his immense talent and uncompromising spirit.

Tosh's socially conscious songs like "Legalize It," and  "Equal Rights," advocated for human rights, freedom, and the decriminalization of marijuana. His distinctive voice and fearless lyrics made him an influential figure in both reggae and the fight against oppression.

Jimmy Cliff

Jimmy Cliff's career skyrocketed in the 70s, but his impact extended well into the 80s and 90s. His breakthrough role in the movie "The Harder They Come" introduced reggae to an international audience.

Songs like "Many Rivers to Cross" and "You Can Get It If You Really Want" became anthems of hope and resilience. Cliff's soulful voice and heartfelt lyrics captured the essence of Jamaican music, making him a true pioneer of the genre.

Buju Banton

Born Mark Anthony Myrie, Buju Banton emerged in the 90s as a dynamic force in the reggae industry. His powerful voice and captivating stage presence brought fresh energy to the genre.

Banton's socially conscious songs such as "Untold Stories," "Wanna Be Loved," and "Champion" addressed themes of spirituality, poverty, and cultural identity. His lyrical prowess and ability to fuse reggae with dancehall and hip-hop elements set him apart as a trailblazer.

Shabba Ranks

Shabba Ranks was one of the most prominent dancehall artists of the 80s and 90s, infusing reggae with a lively and energetic sound.

Known for his unique vocal style and catchy hooks, Ranks scored several chart-topping hits including "Mr. Loverman" and "Ting-A-Ling." His contribution to the dancehall scene paved the way for future generations and solidified his position as a reggae icon.

Dennis Brown

Known as the "Crown Prince of Reggae," Dennis Brown was a prolific singer and songwriter with a career that spanned several decades, including the 80s and 90s.

His smooth, soulful voice earned him a dedicated fan base, and he became one of Jamaica's most beloved artists. Classics like "Love Has Found Its Way," "Revolution," and "Here I Come" showcased his versatility and lyrical depth, making him a true reggae icon.

Sister Nancy

Breaking barriers in a male-dominated industry, Sister Nancy, born Ophlin Russell, was a pioneering female dancehall artist in the 80s and 90s. Her signature track "Bam Bam" remains an anthem and is often sampled in various music genres to this day. Sister Nancy's powerful vocals and empowering lyrics inspired a generation of female artists and solidified her as a trailblazer in reggae's history.

Gregory Isaacs

Known for his velvety-smooth voice and romantic ballads, Gregory Isaacs, also known as the "Cool Ruler," gained international acclaim during the 80s and 90s. His distinctive style, coupled with hits like "Night Nurse," "Rumours," and "Hard Drugs," made him a prominent figure in lovers' rock, a subgenre of reggae that focused on romantic themes.

Barrington Levy

Barrington Levy's unique vocal delivery and high-energy performances made him stand out in the reggae scene of the 80s and 90s. He effortlessly transitioned between singing and toasting (a rhythmic style of talking over a beat), adding a dancehall flavour to his music.

Hits like "Black Roses" and "Under Mi Sensi" showcased his versatility and contributed to his widespread popularity.

The 80s and 90s were a vibrant era for Jamaican reggae music, producing an array of talented artists who played a crucial role in shaping the genre's evolution and global impact.

From the soul-stirring messages of Dennis Brown to the empowering anthems of Sister Nancy, and the romantic ballads of Gregory Isaacs, each artist brought their unique voice and perspective to the reggae landscape.

What's awesome about the Jamaican reggae icons of the 80s and 90s is that their music is just as relevant today as it was back then. 

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References & Sources For Jamaican Reggae Icons of the 80s and 90s

B, S. (2022) The 100 most important dancehall tracks of All time, DJMag.com. Available at: https://djmag.com/longreads/100-most-important-dancehall-tracks-all-time (Accessed: 18 July 2023).
Quattro, M.P. (2019) 10 amazing artist headshots from Reggae’s dynamic 80’s and 90’s - you may not recognize them!, Jamaicans.com. Available at: https://jamaicans.com/10-amazing-artist-headshots-from-reggaes-dynamic-80s-and-90s-you-may-not-recognize-them/ (Accessed: 18 July 2023).

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