Reggae, with its rich history and profound influence on global music culture, has produced countless masterpieces over the decades. This list attempts to capture the 100 most influential, innovative, and enduring reggae albums of all time. From the early ska and rocksteady days to modern reggae and everything in between, these albums represent the pinnacle of reggae artistry and have shaped the genre in profound ways.
1. Catch a Fire – Bob Marley & The Wailers (1973)
Often considered the album that brought reggae to an international audience, “Catch a Fire” blends rootsy reggae with rock influences. Its powerful lyrics and infectious rhythms set the stage for Bob Marley’s global stardom.
Key Tracks: “Stir It Up,” “Concrete Jungle,” “Slave Driver”
2. Exodus – Bob Marley & The Wailers (1977)
Named the “Album of the Century” by Time Magazine, “Exodus” features some of Marley’s most iconic songs. Its themes of exile, return, and spiritual redemption resonated with audiences worldwide.
Key Tracks: “Jamming,” “One Love/People Get Ready,” “Exodus”
3. The Harder They Come – Jimmy Cliff (1972)
The soundtrack to the film of the same name, this album introduced reggae to many international listeners. Jimmy Cliff’s soulful vocals and the album’s diverse range of reggae styles created a perfect entry point for new fans.
Key Tracks: “The Harder They Come,” “Many Rivers to Cross,” “Sitting in Limbo”
4. Burnin’ – Bob Marley & The Wailers (1973)
Released the same year as “Catch a Fire,” “Burnin’” features some of Marley’s most politically charged songs. The album’s raw energy and powerful messaging solidified Marley’s status as a voice for the oppressed.
Key Tracks: “Get Up, Stand Up,” “I Shot the Sheriff,” “Small Axe”
5. Natty Dread – Bob Marley & The Wailers (1974)
The first album released as “Bob Marley & The Wailers,” “Natty Dread” saw Marley stepping fully into the spotlight. Its blend of spiritual and political themes created a powerful, uplifting album.
Key Tracks: “No Woman, No Cry,” “Lively Up Yourself,” “Natty Dread”
6. Marcus Garvey – Burning Spear (1975)
Winston Rodney, aka Burning Spear, created a landmark album of roots reggae with “Marcus Garvey.” Its Afrocentric themes and hypnotic rhythms made it a cornerstone of conscious reggae.
Key Tracks: “Marcus Garvey,” “Slavery Days,” “The Ghost”
7. Heart of the Congos – The Congos (1977)
Produced by Lee “Scratch” Perry, this album is a masterpiece of roots reggae. The Congos’ haunting harmonies and Perry’s innovative production created a unique, otherworldly sound.
Key Tracks: “Fisherman,” “Congoman,” “Open Up the Gate”
8. Two Sevens Clash – Culture (1977)
Culture’s debut album is a powerful work of roots reggae, filled with themes of Rastafarianism and social justice. Its title refers to the year 1977, which many Rastas believed would bring about apocalyptic change.
Key Tracks: “Two Sevens Clash,” “I’m Not Ashamed,” “See Them a Come”
9. Equal Rights – Peter Tosh (1977)
Peter Tosh’s second solo album is a fiery call for social justice and equality. Tosh’s powerful vocals and incisive lyrics created an album that remains relevant decades after its release.
Key Tracks: “Get Up, Stand Up,” “Equal Rights,” “Downpresser Man”
10. War Ina Babylon – Max Romeo & The Upsetters (1976)
Produced by Lee “Scratch” Perry, this album is a classic of roots reggae. Max Romeo’s conscious lyrics and Perry’s innovative production created a powerful, politically charged album.
Key Tracks: “War Ina Babylon,” “Chase the Devil,” “One Step Forward”
11. Legalize It – Peter Tosh (1976)
Peter Tosh’s debut solo album established him as a major force in reggae music. Its title track became an anthem for marijuana legalization, while the album as a whole showcased Tosh’s skills as a songwriter and performer.
Key Tracks: “Legalize It,” “Why Must I Cry,” “Ketchy Shuby”
12. Super Ape – Lee “Scratch” Perry & The Upsetters (1976)
This dub masterpiece showcases Lee “Scratch” Perry’s innovative production techniques. Its spacey, psychedelic sound pushed the boundaries of what reggae could be.
Key Tracks: “Zion’s Blood,” “Croaking Lizard,” “Dread Lion”
13. Kaya – Bob Marley & The Wailers (1978)
A more laid-back album than some of Marley’s other work, “Kaya” focuses on themes of love and marijuana. Its mellow vibe and catchy melodies made it a commercial success.
Key Tracks: “Is This Love,” “Satisfy My Soul,” “Sun Is Shining”
14. Blackheart Man – Bunny Wailer (1976)
Bunny Wailer’s debut solo album is a roots reggae classic. Its spiritual themes and Wailer’s soulful vocals created a deeply personal and moving album.
Key Tracks: “Dreamland,” “Fighting Against Conviction,” “Amagideon (Armagedon)”
15. Right Time – Mighty Diamonds (1976)
The Mighty Diamonds’ debut album is a perfect blend of roots reggae and sweet lover’s rock. Their tight harmonies and catchy melodies created an instantly appealing sound.
Key Tracks: “Right Time,” “I Need a Roof,” “Have Mercy”
16. Police & Thieves – Junior Murvin (1977)
Produced by Lee “Scratch” Perry, this album features Junior Murvin’s distinctive falsetto over Perry’s innovative production. The title track became an international hit and was famously covered by The Clash.
Key Tracks: “Police & Thieves,” “Tedious,” “Roots Train”
17. Rastaman Vibration – Bob Marley & The Wailers (1976)
This album saw Bob Marley achieving his highest chart success in the U.S. during his lifetime. Its mix of spiritual and political themes, coupled with catchy melodies, appealed to a wide audience.
Key Tracks: “Positive Vibration,” “War,” “Crazy Baldhead”
18. Funky Kingston – Toots & The Maytals (1975)
Toots Hibbert’s soulful vocals shine on this album, which blends reggae with elements of funk and soul. Its energetic performances and catchy songs helped bring reggae to a wider audience.
Key Tracks: “Funky Kingston,” “Pressure Drop,” “Time Tough”
19. Survival – Bob Marley & The Wailers (1979)
One of Marley’s most politically charged albums, “Survival” addresses themes of Pan-Africanism and anti-colonialism. Its militant tone and powerful messaging created a rallying cry for the oppressed.
Key Tracks: “Zimbabwe,” “Africa Unite,” “Survival”
20. Uprising – Bob Marley & The Wailers (1980)
Bob Marley’s final studio album released during his lifetime, “Uprising” is a powerful closing statement. Its mix of spiritual and political themes, along with some of Marley’s most personal songs, created a fitting capstone to his career.
Key Tracks: “Could You Be Loved,” “Redemption Song,” “Forever Loving Jah”
21. Satta Massagana – The Abyssinians (1976)
This roots reggae classic features the Abyssinians’ beautiful harmonies and conscious lyrics. The title track became one of the most covered songs in reggae history.
Key Tracks: “Satta Massagana,” “Declaration of Rights,” “The Good Lord”
22. Screaming Target – Big Youth (1973)
Big Youth’s debut album helped establish him as one of the premier deejays in reggae. His unique vocal style and conscious lyrics created a powerful and influential album.
Key Tracks: “Screaming Target,” “Chi Chi Run,” “Tippertone Rocking”
23. Strictly Roots – Israel Vibration (1979)
This roots reggae classic features the unique vocal harmonies of Israel Vibration. Their conscious lyrics and rootsy sound created a powerful and uplifting album.
Key Tracks: “The Same Song,” “Why Worry,” “Greedy Dog”
24. Mr. Isaacs – Gregory Isaacs (1977)
Gregory Isaacs’ smooth vocals shine on this lover’s rock classic. His ability to blend conscious themes with romantic lyrics created a unique and appealing sound.
Key Tracks: “Mr. Cop,” “Set the Captives Free,” “Story Book Children”
25. Showcase – Augustus Pablo (1974)
This instrumental album showcases Augustus Pablo’s unique melodica sound. His haunting melodies over rootsy rhythms created a distinctive and influential style.
Key Tracks: “Pablo in Dub,” “East of the River Nile,” “Jah Light”
26. Trojan Reggae Party – Various Artists (1988)
This compilation album from the legendary Trojan Records label provides a perfect introduction to classic reggae. Its diverse selection of artists and styles offers a comprehensive overview of reggae’s golden age.
Key Tracks: “Double Barrel” by Dave & Ansell Collins, “The Liquidator” by Harry J Allstars, “Long Shot Kick De Bucket” by The Pioneers
27. Dread in a Babylon – U-Roy (1975)
U-Roy’s distinctive toasting style shines on this classic album. His ability to ride the rhythm and deliver conscious lyrics helped establish him as one of reggae’s premier deejays.
Key Tracks: “Dread in a Babylon,” “The Great Psalms,” “Chalice in the Palace”
28. Rockers – Various Artists (1979)
The soundtrack to the film “Rockers” provides a perfect snapshot of late 70s reggae. Its diverse selection of artists and styles creates a comprehensive and highly enjoyable listening experience.
Key Tracks: “Money Worries” by The Maytones, “Stepping Razor” by Peter Tosh, “Fade Away” by Junior Byles
29. Cumbolo – Culture (1979)
Culture’s third album continues their tradition of conscious roots reggae. Joseph Hill’s distinctive vocals and the band’s tight harmonies create a powerful and uplifting sound.
Key Tracks: “Cumbolo,” “Innocent Blood,” “Trod On”
30. Crucial! Roots Classics – Various Artists (1994)
This compilation album provides an excellent overview of roots reggae. Its selection of conscious and spiritual songs from various artists offers a comprehensive introduction to the subgenre.
Key Tracks: “None Shall Escape the Judgement” by Johnny Clarke, “Satta Massagana” by The Abyssinians, “Two Sevens Clash” by Culture
31. Scientist Rids the World of the Evil Curse of the Vampires – Scientist (1981)
This concept dub album showcases Scientist’s innovative production techniques. Its spacey, effects-laden sound pushed the boundaries of dub reggae.
Key Tracks: “The Voodoo Curse,” “Your Teeth in My Neck,” “The Mummy’s Shroud”
32. Handsworth Revolution – Steel Pulse (1978)
Steel Pulse’s debut album is a landmark of British reggae. Its conscious lyrics and tight musicianship established them as one of the premier reggae bands outside of Jamaica.
Key Tracks: “Ku Klux Klan,” “Handsworth Revolution,” “Prodigal Son”
33. Guess Who’s Coming to Dinner – Black Uhuru (1979)
Black Uhuru’s third album showcases their unique vocal harmonies and conscious lyrics. Produced by Sly and Robbie, it features a modern, dubby sound that would come to define their style.
Key Tracks: “Guess Who’s Coming to Dinner,” “Abortion,” “General Penitentiary”
34. Reggae Got Soul – Toots & The Maytals (1976)
This album perfectly captures Toots Hibbert’s soulful vocals and the Maytals’ energetic performances. Its blend of reggae, soul, and funk created a unique and highly enjoyable sound.
Key Tracks: “Reggae Got Soul,” “Rasta Man,” “True Love Is Hard to Find”
35. Dub Side of the Moon – Easy Star All-Stars (2003)
This innovative album reimagines Pink Floyd’s “Dark Side of the Moon” as a dub reggae album. Its creative arrangements and rootsy rhythms created a unique listening experience that appealed to both reggae and rock fans.
Key Tracks: “Breathe,” “Money,” “Time”
36. Radiodread – Easy Star All-Stars (2006)
Following the success of “Dub Side of the Moon,” Easy Star All-Stars tackled Radiohead’s “OK Computer.” The result is a creative and highly enjoyable reggae reinterpretation of a rock classic.
Key Tracks: “Karma Police,” “Let Down,” “No Surprises”
37. Welcome to Jamrock – Damian “Jr. Gong” Marley (2005)
Damian Marley’s breakthrough album blends traditional reggae with hip-hop influences. Its modern sound and conscious lyrics brought reggae to a new generation of listeners.
Key Tracks: “Welcome to Jamrock,” “Road to Zion,” “Pimpa’s Paradise”
38. Halfway Tree – Damian “Jr. Gong” Marley (2001)
Damian Marley’s Grammy-winning second album showcases his unique blend of reggae and hip-hop. Its conscious lyrics and innovative production helped establish him as a major force in modern reggae.
Key Tracks: “More Justice,” “It Was Written,” “Mi Blenda”
39. Distant Relatives – Nas & Damian “Jr. Gong” Marley (2010)
This collaborative album between rapper Nas and reggae artist Damian Marley blends hip-hop and reggae to create a unique sound. Its exploration of African themes and conscious lyrics created a powerful and thought-provoking album.
Key Tracks: “As We Enter,” “Road to Zion,” “Patience”
40. True Love – Toots & The Maytals (2004)
This Grammy-winning album features Toots Hibbert performing duets with various rock and reggae stars. Its diverse collaborations showcase the wide-ranging influence of Toots and reggae music in general.
Key Tracks: “True Love” (with Bonnie Raitt), “Pressure Drop” (with Eric Clapton), “Reggae Got Soul” (with Ben Harper)
41. Dragonfly – Ziggy Marley (2003)
Ziggy Marley’s second solo album showcases his growth as a songwriter and performer. Its blend of reggae with rock and pop influences created a modern sound while staying true to his roots.
Key Tracks: “True to Myself,” “Rainbow in the Sky,” “Melancholy Mood”
42. Mind Control – Stephen Marley (2007)
Stephen Marley’s solo debut showcases his production skills and versatility as an artist. Its blend of traditional reggae with modern influences created a fresh yet rootsy sound.
Key Tracks: “Mind Control,” “The Traffic Jam,” “Chase Dem”
43. Stony Hill – Damian “Jr. Gong” Marley (2017)
Damian Marley’s fourth studio album continues his tradition of blending reggae with hip-hop influences. Its conscious lyrics and innovative production showcase his growth as an artist.
Key Tracks: “Nail Pon Cross,” “Medication,” “R.O.A.R.”
44. Set Up Shop – Chronixx (2017)
Chronixx’s debut album helped establish him as a leading voice in the reggae revival movement. Its conscious lyrics and rootsy sound appealed to both traditional and modern reggae fans.
Key Tracks: “Skankin’ Sweet,” “Likes,” “Spanish Town Rockin’”
45. Chronology – Chronixx (2017)
Chronixx’s sophomore album further solidified his place in modern reggae. Its blend of traditional and contemporary sounds, coupled with conscious lyrics, created a powerful and relevant album.
Key Tracks: “Skankin’ Sweet,” “Majesty,” “Black Is Beautiful”
46. Ancient Future – Protoje (2015)
Protoje’s third album is a cornerstone of the reggae revival movement. Its blend of traditional reggae with modern production techniques created a fresh yet rootsy sound.
Key Tracks: “Who Knows,” “Criminal,” “Bubblin’”
47. A Matter of Time – Protoje (2018)
Protoje’s fourth album continues his exploration of conscious themes and modern reggae sounds. Its innovative production and thoughtful lyrics showcase his growth as an artist.
Key Tracks: “No Guarantee,” “Like This,” “Flames”
48. Forever – Koffee (2020)
This Grammy-winning EP introduced Koffee’s unique blend of reggae, dancehall, and rap to a global audience. Her youthful energy and positive lyrics brought a fresh perspective to reggae music.
Key Tracks: “Toast,” “Rapture,” “W”
49. In Search of Lost Time – Koffee (2022)
Koffee’s debut full-length album showcases her growth as an artist. Its blend of reggae, dancehall, and afrobeats creates a modern sound while maintaining a connection to reggae’s roots.
Key Tracks: “Pull Up,” “West Indies,” “Lonely”
50. Exodus 40 – Bob Marley & The Wailers (2017)
This reimagining of Bob Marley’s classic “Exodus” album, overseen by Ziggy Marley, provides a fresh perspective on these iconic songs. The new mixes and previously unreleased material offer insights into Marley’s creative process.
Key Tracks: “One Love/People Get Ready (Rhythm Version),” “Turn Your Lights Down Low (Alternate Version),” “Natural Mystic (Alternate Version)”
51. Strictly Roots – Morgan Heritage (2015)
This Grammy-winning album from reggae royalty Morgan Heritage blends traditional reggae sounds with modern production. Its conscious lyrics and rootsy vibe appeal to both old and new reggae fans.
Key Tracks: “Strictly Roots,” “Child of Jah,” “Perform and Done”
52. Avrakedabra – Morgan Heritage (2017)
Morgan Heritage’s follow-up to “Strictly Roots” continues their exploration of modern reggae sounds. Its diverse influences and conscious lyrics create a fresh yet familiar reggae experience.
Key Tracks: “Reggae Night,” “One Family,” “Selah”
53. Contradiction – Sizzla (2005)
Sizzla’s conscious lyrics and fiery delivery shine on this album. Its blend of roots reggae and dancehall influences creates a powerful and energetic listening experience.
Key Tracks: “Solid as a Rock,” “Thank U Mama,” “Be Strong”
54. The Messiah – Sizzla (2013)
This Grammy-nominated album showcases Sizzla’s versatility as an artist. Its mix of reggae, dancehall, and even hip-hop influences creates a diverse and engaging listening experience.
Key Tracks: “Good Love,” “Chant Dem Down,” “Psalm 121”
55. New Name – Buju Banton (1992)
Buju Banton’s second album saw him transitioning from dancehall to a more conscious reggae sound. His distinctive voice and thoughtful lyrics created a powerful and influential album.
Key Tracks: “Deportees,” “Love Me Browning,” “Love Black Woman”
56. ‘Til Shiloh – Buju Banton (1995)
Often considered Buju Banton’s masterpiece, “’Til Shiloh” saw him fully embracing roots reggae and Rastafarian themes. Its conscious lyrics and rootsy sound created a landmark album in modern reggae.
Key Tracks: “Untold Stories,” “Not an Easy Road,” “’Til I’m Laid to Rest”
57. Unchained Spirit – Buju Banton (2000)
This Grammy-nominated album showcases Buju Banton’s growth as an artist. Its blend of reggae, dancehall, and even hip-hop influences creates a diverse and engaging listening experience.
Key Tracks: “23rd Psalm,” “Destiny,” “Mighty Dread”
58. Before the Dawn – Buju Banton (2010)
Buju Banton’s Grammy-winning album, released while he was incarcerated, is a powerful statement of resilience. Its conscious lyrics and rootsy sound create a moving and inspiring listening experience.
Key Tracks: “Do Good,” “Optimistic Soul,” “Battered & Bruised”
59. Upside Down 2020 – Buju Banton (2020)
Buju Banton’s comeback album after his release from prison showcases his enduring talent. Its blend of reggae, dancehall, and even afrobeats creates a modern sound while staying true to his roots.
Key Tracks: “Blessed,” “Memories,” “The World Is Changing”
60. Dutty Rock – Sean Paul (2002)
While more dancehall than pure reggae, Sean Paul’s breakthrough album had a significant impact on bringing Jamaican music to a global audience. Its catchy hooks and danceable rhythms created a string of international hits.
Key Tracks: “Gimme the Light,” “Get Busy,” “Like Glue”
61. The Trinity – Sean Paul (2005)
Sean Paul’s follow-up to “Dutty Rock” continued his streak of international success. Its blend of dancehall, reggae, and pop influences created a sound that appealed to a wide audience.
Key Tracks: “We Be Burnin’,” “Temperature,” “Ever Blazin’”
62. Imperial Blaze – Sean Paul (2009)
Sean Paul’s fourth studio album saw him continuing to evolve his sound. Its mix of dancehall, reggae, and pop influences created a diverse and engaging listening experience.
Key Tracks: “So Fine,” “Hold My Hand,” “Press It Up”
63. Tomahawk Technique – Sean Paul (2012)
This album saw Sean Paul experimenting with a more electronic dance music-influenced sound. Its blend of dancehall, reggae, and EDM created a fresh and modern take on Jamaican music.
Key Tracks: “Got 2 Luv U,” “She Doesn’t Mind,” “How Deep Is Your Love”
64. Full Frequency – Sean Paul (2014)
Sean Paul’s sixth studio album continues his exploration of diverse musical influences. Its blend of dancehall, reggae, pop, and electronic music creates a modern and eclectic sound.
Key Tracks: “Want Dem All,” “Entertainment 2.0,” “Riot”
65. Made in Africa – Alpha Blondy (1996)
Ivorian reggae star Alpha Blondy’s ninth studio album showcases his unique blend of reggae and African music. Its conscious lyrics and rootsy sound created a powerful and influential album.
Key Tracks: “Yitzhak Rabin,” “Journaliste en Danger,” “Blesser Africa”
66. Mystic Power – Alpha Blondy (2013)
Alpha Blondy’s 17th studio album continues his tradition of blending reggae with African influences. Its conscious lyrics and diverse musical styles create a rich and engaging listening experience.
Key Tracks: “Hope,” “Mystic Power,” “J’ai Tué le Commissaire”
67. Francafrique – Tiken Jah Fakoly (2002)
Ivorian reggae artist Tiken Jah Fakoly’s breakthrough album addresses political issues in Africa with powerful lyrics and rootsy reggae rhythms. Its conscious message and engaging sound brought African reggae to a wider audience.
Key Tracks: “Françafrique,” “Le Balayeur,” “Africain à Paris”
68. African Revolution – Tiken Jah Fakoly (2010)
Tiken Jah Fakoly’s seventh studio album continues his tradition of politically engaged reggae. Its powerful lyrics and diverse musical influences create a compelling and thought-provoking album.
Key Tracks: “African Revolution,” “Je Dis Non,” “Votez Pour Moi”
69. Racine – Lucky Dube (1990)
South African reggae star Lucky Dube’s breakthrough album blends reggae rhythms with African influences. Its conscious lyrics and catchy melodies helped bring South African reggae to an international audience.
Key Tracks: “The Hand That Giveth,” “Slave,” “Remember Me”
70. House of Exile – Lucky Dube (1991)
Lucky Dube’s follow-up to “Racine” continues his exploration of conscious themes through reggae music. Its powerful lyrics and rootsy sound solidified his status as a major figure in African reggae.
Key Tracks: “House of Exile,” “Crazy World,” “Prisoner”
71. Serious Reggae Business – Aswad (1988)
British reggae band Aswad’s ninth studio album saw them achieving mainstream success with a more pop-influenced sound. Its catchy melodies and polished production appealed to both reggae fans and a wider audience.
Key Tracks: “Don’t Turn Around,” “Give a Little Love,” “Set Them Free”
72. Rise and Shine – Aswad (1994)
Aswad’s 13th studio album continues their exploration of a more mainstream reggae sound. Its blend of reggae, pop, and R&B influences creates a smooth and accessible listening experience.
Key Tracks: “Shine,” “Warriors,” “Fever”
73. True Democracy – Steel Pulse (1982)
British reggae band Steel Pulse’s fourth studio album is considered by many to be their masterpiece. Its conscious lyrics and tight musicianship created a powerful and influential reggae album.
Key Tracks: “Chant a Psalm,” “Worth His Weight in Gold,” “Blues Dance Raid”
74. Earth Crisis – Steel Pulse (1984)
Steel Pulse’s follow-up to “True Democracy” continues their tradition of conscious reggae. Its powerful lyrics and diverse musical influences create a compelling and thought-provoking album.
Key Tracks: “Steppin’ Out,” “Tightrope,” “Roller Skates”
75. Rage and Fury – Burning Spear (1988)
Burning Spear’s 15th studio album continues his tradition of conscious roots reggae. Winston Rodney’s distinctive voice and the album’s powerful lyrics create a moving and inspiring listening experience.
Key Tracks: “Mek We Dweet,” “Jah Is My Driver,” “Cry Blood Africa”
76. Calling Rastafari – Burning Spear (1999)
This Grammy-winning album from Burning Spear showcases his enduring talent as a reggae artist. Its rootsy sound and conscious lyrics create a powerful and authentic reggae experience.
Key Tracks: “Calling Rastafari,” “House of the Rising Sun,” “African Postman”
77. Dub Transmission – Sly & Robbie (1985)
This dub album from legendary rhythm section Sly & Robbie showcases their innovative production techniques. Its spacey, effects-laden sound pushed the boundaries of dub reggae.
Key Tracks: “Boops Dub,” “Unmetered Taxi,” “Dub Masterpiece”
78. Rhythm Killers – Sly & Robbie (1987)
Sly & Robbie’s exploration of diverse musical styles shines on this album. Its blend of reggae, funk, and electronic influences created a unique and influential sound.
Key Tracks: “Boops (Here to Go),” “Make ‘Em Move,” “Fire”
79. Marcus Garvey/Garvey’s Ghost – Burning Spear (1975/1976)
This two-album set features Burning Spear’s classic “Marcus Garvey” album and its dub counterpart “Garvey’s Ghost.” Together, they create a powerful and immersive reggae experience.
Key Tracks: “Marcus Garvey,” “Slavery Days,” “The Ghost”
80. Rasta Revolution – Bob Marley & The Wailers (1974)
This compilation album features early recordings by Bob Marley & The Wailers for producer Lee “Scratch” Perry. Its raw sound and powerful performances provide insight into Marley’s early development as an artist.
Key Tracks: “Soul Rebel,” “Duppy Conqueror,” “Small Axe”
81. Blackheart Man – Bunny Wailer (1976)
Bunny Wailer’s debut solo album is a roots reggae classic. Its spiritual themes and Wailer’s soulful vocals created a deeply personal and moving album.
Key Tracks: “Dreamland,” “Fighting Against Conviction,” “Amagideon (Armagedon)”
82. Solomonic Singles 1: Tougher Than Tough – Bunny Wailer (1992)
This compilation album features some of Bunny Wailer’s best work from the late 1970s and early 1980s. Its diverse selection of songs showcases Wailer’s versatility as an artist.
Key Tracks: “Tougher Than Tough,” “Cool Runnings,” “Rise and Shine”
83. Mr. Brown – Gregory Isaacs (1981)
Gregory Isaacs’ smooth vocals shine on this classic album. His ability to blend conscious themes with romantic lyrics created a unique and appealing sound.
Key Tracks: “Mr. Brown,” “Tune In,” “Permanent Lover”
84. Night Nurse – Gregory Isaacs (1982)
Often considered Gregory Isaacs’ masterpiece, “Night Nurse” perfectly captures his smooth lover’s rock style. The title track became one of his most famous songs.
Key Tracks: “Night Nurse,” “Objection Overruled,” “Material Man”
85. Chill Out – Black Uhuru (1982)
Black Uhuru’s sixth studio album showcases their unique vocal harmonies and conscious lyrics. Produced by Sly and Robbie, it features a modern, dubby sound that defined their style.
Key Tracks: “Chill Out,” “Mondays,” “Darkness”
86. Anthem – Black Uhuru (1984)
This Grammy-winning album (the first ever awarded in the reggae category) features Black Uhuru at the height of their powers. Its modern production and conscious lyrics created a landmark album in reggae history.
Key Tracks: “What Is Life?,” “Solidarity,” “Bull in the Pen”
87. Ini Kamoze – Ini Kamoze (1984)
Ini Kamoze’s self-titled debut album, produced by Sly and Robbie, introduced his unique vocal style to the world. Its modern production and conscious lyrics created a fresh reggae sound.
Key Tracks: “World a Music,” “Trouble You a Trouble Me,” “General”
88. Sly & Robbie Present Ini Kamoze – Ini Kamoze (1991)
This album saw Ini Kamoze reuniting with producers Sly and Robbie. Its blend of reggae and dancehall influences created a modern sound that appealed to a wide audience.
Key Tracks: “Here Comes the Hotstepper,” “Bullet Proof Buddy,” “Shocking Out”
89. Reggae Greats – Jimmy Cliff (1984)
This compilation album provides an excellent overview of Jimmy Cliff’s career up to the mid-1980s. Its selection of hits and lesser-known tracks showcases Cliff’s versatility as an artist.
Key Tracks: “The Harder They Come,” “Many Rivers to Cross,” “Wonderful World, Beautiful People”
90. Higher and Higher – Jimmy Cliff (1978)
Jimmy Cliff’s foray into disco-influenced reggae resulted in this catchy and upbeat album. Its blend of reggae rhythms with disco production created a unique and danceable sound.
Key Tracks: “I’m Coming Home,” “Bongo Man,” “Treat the Youths Right”
