Top 10 Jamaican Singers: Celebrating Icons and Rising Stars

Jamaica, the heartbeat of reggae, ska, and dancehall, has produced a wealth of musical talent that has captivated the world for decades. Jamaican singers have left an indelible mark on global music, from the soulful rhythms of reggae legends to the electrifying beats of modern-day dancehall.

This comprehensive guide highlights the ten famous Jamaican singers known for their timeless classics and ability to push boundaries with fresh sounds.

Let’s set the tune to embody the spirit and vibrancy of Jamaica, resonating far beyond the Caribbean shores!

List of Top 10 Jamaican Singers

1: Bob Marley

Date of Birth: February 6, 1945, Nine Mile, Jamaica.

Date of Death: May 11, 1981, Miami, Florida, U.S.

Best Songs:

• “No Woman, No Cry”
• “Redemption Song”
• “Get Up, Stand Up”
• “One Love”
• “I Shot the Sheriff”

Accolades:

• Inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame
• Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award
• Inducted into the Star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame
• Inducted into the Black Music & Entertainment Walk of Fame
• Jamaica’s Order of Merit

Bob Marley’s journey into music began in 1963 when he formed the group The Wailers, which later evolved into Bob Marley & The Wailers. His style blended reggae with elements of ska and rocksteady, making him a global icon. His conversion to Rastafarianism deeply influenced his music, infusing it with spiritual and political messages. Furthermore, his works like “No Woman, No Cry” and “Get Up, Stand Up” became anthems for change and freedom.

Marley’s fame skyrocketed with the release of “Catch a Fire” and “Burnin’,” albums that brought Jamaican music to international prominence.

2: Jimmy Cliff

Date of Birth: July 30, 1944, St. Catherine, Jamaica

Best Songs:

• “Peace”
• “I Can See Clearly Now”
• “Now and Forever”
• “Rebel in Me”
• “Many Rivers to Cross”

Accolades:

• Order of Merit (Jamaica)
• Inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame

Jimmy Cliff, born James Chambers, began his journey into music as a teenager when his song “Hurricane Hattie” became a hit at just 14 years old. His style, blending ska, rocksteady, reggae, and soul, set him apart in the Jamaican music scene and beyond.

Cliff’s music, known for its powerful messages and emotional depth, has a universal appeal. Tracks like “Many Rivers to Cross” resonate not just locally but globally, touching the hearts of people from all walks of life. His role in the film The Harder They Come was instrumental in popularizing reggae music internationally, solidifying his status as a pioneer.

3: Bunny Wailer

Date of Birth: April 10, 1947, Kingston, Jamaica

Date of Death: March 2, 2021, Kingston, Jamaica

Best Songs:

• “Blackheart Man”
• “Protest”
• “Time Will Tell”

Accolades:

• Grammy Awards

Bunny Wailer’s journey into reggae began as a founding member of The Wailers alongside Bob Marley and Peter Tosh. His distinctive style, characterized by its deep, spiritual quality and rootsy rhythms, helped define the reggae genre.

Wailer’s solo career flourished with critically acclaimed albums like “Blackheart Man,” showcasing his talent as a singer-songwriter and percussionist. His work extended beyond music into acting and composing for films such as “Marley” and “Dance Central 3.”

4: Errol Brown

Date of Birth: November 12, 1943, Kingston, Jamaica

Date of Death: May 6, 2015, The Bahamas

Best Songs:

• “You Sexy Thing”
• “Brother Louie”
• “Love Is Life”
• “You Could Have Been a Lady”

Accolades:

• Primetime Emmy Award nomination
• Grammy Awards for Best Reggae Album

Errol Brown’s foray into music began in 1969 with his work in the Hot Chocolate Band, where he recorded a notable version of John Lennon’s “Give Peace a Chance”. Renowned for his distinctive vocal style that blended soul and funk, Brown’s charismatic performances and engaging lyrics captivated audiences.

His songwriting prowess, particularly with bassist Tony Wilson, resulted in numerous hits resonating with fans, establishing him as a significant figure in British music and among the famous Jamaican singers.

5: Shaggy

Date of Birth: October 22, 1968, Kingston, Jamaica

Best Songs:

• “It Wasn’t Me”
• “Boombastic”
• “In the Summertime”
• “Oh Carolina”
• “Angel”

Accolades:

• Grammy Awards for Best Reggae Album
• Brit Award for International Male Solo Artist
• Jamaican Order of Distinction, Commander

Shaggy, born Orville Richard Burrell, began his musical journey at age 18 after moving to New York City. He developed his trademark “toasting” vocal style, which is unique in reggae and dancehall music, while serving in the United States Marine Corps. His distinctive fusion of pop, hip-hop, and reggae gave him international recognition, particularly during the 1990s when he had successes that reached the top of the charts.

6: Liz Mitchell

Date of Birth: July 12, 1952, Clarendon, Jamaica Best Songs:

• The Knife and Gun Club
• Perfect
• Winter in April

Accolades:

• MBE (Member of the Order of the British Empire)

Liz Mitchell’s musical journey began in Jamaica and continued in London, where she initially joined the musical “Hair” and later relocated to West Berlin. Her distinct blend of disco and reggae made her a standout performer, particularly as a lead singer for Boney M., a band that achieved immense popularity in the 1970s. Known for her rich, soulful voice and charismatic stage presence, Mitchell became famous for chart-topping hits that resonated globally.

7: Marcia Griffiths

Date of Birth: November 23, 1949, Kingston, Jamaica

Best Songs:

• “Electric Boogie”
• “Love is Automatic”
• “Live On”
• “A Beer and Girl”

Accolades:

• Jamaican Order of Distinction (Commander class)
• Order of Jamaica (OJ)
• Grammy Award

Marcia Griffiths began her singing career in 1964, performing with Byron Lee and the Dragonaires, which led to her first recording contract. Known for her smooth vocal delivery and captivating live performances, Griffiths gained fame through her solo hits and as part of the I Threes, the backing vocal group for Bob Marley.

Her 1982 hit “Electric Boogie” became a major success, especially after its remix in 1989, contributing to the global popularity of the Electric Slide dance. Griffiths’ ability to blend reggae with elements of pop made her a significant figure in the genre, inspiring countless artists and leaving an indelible mark on the music industry and among the top Jamaican singers.

8: Grace Jones

Date of Birth: May 19, 1948, Spanish Town, Jamaica

Best Songs:

• “Warm Leatherette”
• “Nightclubbing”
• “Slave to the Rhythm”
• “Private Life”
• “Pull Up To The Bumper”

Accolades:

• Q Idol Award
• Nomination for Saturn Award

Grace Jones entered the music scene in the late 1970s after entering into modeling. Known for her androgynous appearance and bold fashion choices, Jones blended various styles, including reggae, funk, and pop. Her unique sound and striking stage presence made her a prominent figure in the disco and new wave movements.

Collaborating with influential artists and producers, she produced hits like “Pull Up to the Bumper”, showcasing her distinctive vocal style and theatricality. Jones’s influence extended to modern artists like Lady Gaga and Rihanna, highlighting her impact on pop culture and music.

9: Stephen Marley

Date of Birth: April 20, 1972, Wilmington, Delaware, U.S Best Songs:

• “Hey Baby”
• “Break Us Apart”
• “Rock Stone”
• “Tight Ship”

Accolades:

• Grammy Awards

Stephen Marley, the Jamaican-American singer, made his professional debut at an young age of seven, performing alongside his siblings in Ziggy Marley and the Melody Makers. His unique reggae style, a fusion of traditional roots and modern influences, is characterized by a smooth vocal delivery and rich instrumentation.

Marley’s fame grew through his ability to produce and compose, with his notable albums like “Mind Control” and “Revelation Pt. 1” not only winning critical acclaim but also earning him Grammy recognition. Marley’s collaboration with artists like Pitbull has further highlighted his versatility and relevance in contemporary music.

10: Peter Tosh

Date of Birth: October 19, 1944, Grange Hill, Jamaica

Date of Death: September 11, 1987, Kingston, Jamaica

Best Songs:

• “Legalize It”
• “Reggae Mylitis”
• “Pick Myself Up”
• “The Poor Man Feel it”

Accolades:

• Commonwealth’s Order of Merit

Peter Tosh’s entry into the world of music began in the early 1960s when he met Bob Marley and Bunny Wailer, forming the Wailers. Tosh was known for his deep, resonant voice and ability to play multiple instruments, setting him apart as a key figure in reggae music. His raw and rebellious style, often infused with politically charged messages and Rastafarian themes, resonated deeply with fans.

Tosh’s music, often seen as anthems of resistance, earned him acclaim and controversy, especially from authorities. Despite facing challenges, including a severe car accident and the struggle for recognition in the shadow of Bob Marley, Tosh’s legacy as a pioneer in reggae is undeniable, which makes him one of the most famous Jamaican singers.