Reggae in Nigeria

All over the world Reggae is held as being synonymous with Jamaica. And it is not so hard to come by. In Nigeria, the reception is not different. It is a genre that dominated its music industry in the mid-80s. And it has remained a favourite of many to date. 

Reggae is a musical genre that emerged in Jamaica in the 1960s. It draws its principal influences from an earlier musical genre called Ska. Ska also birthed rocksteady. Other influences of the reggae genre include American Jazz and Rhythm and Blues. Following its emergence Reggae quickly rose to become a global sound, with a large audience base in Britain and Africa.

The rise of Majek Fashek, a member of the band, Jahsticks, established the reggae sound in Nigeria. His 1988 album, Prisoner of Conscience, had the single, Send down the Rain. The song has perhaps remained the biggest Nigerian reggae song to date. The song went on to win 6 PMAN music awards. And he was dubbed the Rainmaker to this effect. Listen here - Majek Fashek

Majek’s sound was influenced by Bob Marley, Jimi Hendrix, and like most Nigerian musicians, the legendary Fela Kuti. These influences belonging to 3 different genres are reflected in Majek’s music style, which he referred to as Kpangolo.

However, we have other notable Nigerian reggae musicians like Daniel Wilson, also referred to as Mr. Ragamuffin. His songs Mr. Ragamuffin and Original Bad Boy were the chart-toppers of their time. 

The pioneers also include Orits Williki, Peterside Ottong, Jerri Jheto, Daddy Showkey, Ras Kimono, Rymzo, De king, High school band of Victor Eshiet, Andy Shoreman, Alex Zitto, Evelyn Ogoli, Wale Man, and Isaac Black. While you might not know everyone listed here, one or two names must ring a bell.

Listen here -Reggae

Each one had its unique blend of reggae and other musical genre influences. The hard work of these pioneers has helped to pave the way for other Nigerian artists with a preference for this genre. 

Reggae music continues to grow as a style in the Nigerian music industry with wide acceptance in religious circles. Notable gospel musicians like Buchi have greatly influenced its popularity and acceptance in the Christian community. Listen to his songs here - Buchi 

Reggae music is a genre for all seasons. It is the type of music to help you cool off on a sunny afternoon and dance away the cold on a rainy day. And while it is a long way from what it used to be in the mid-80s when it rose to prominence, it is not going into extinction anytime soon.