Reggae Roots
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Roots reggae is a subgenre of reggae that deals with the everyday lives and aspirations of Africans and those in the African Diaspora, including the spiritual side of Rastafari, black liberation, revolution and the honouring of God, called Jah by Rastafarians. It is identified with the life of the ghetto sufferer, and the rural poor. Lyrical themes include spirituality and religion, struggles by artists, poverty, black pride, social issues, resistance to fascism, capitalism, corrupt government and racial oppression. A spiritual repatriation to Africa is a common theme in roots reggae.
Stylistic origins: Riddim, reggae, ska, rocksteady, Nyabinghi
Cultural origins: Jamaica
Derivative forms: Dub
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Nasio Fontaine - Under Attack (Official Audio)
Rasta Vibration🔥 Experience the raw power of Roots Reggae with Nasio Fontaine’s "Under Attack." 🔥 First released on the iconic 1994 album Reggae Power, "Under Attack" remains one of the most spiritually charged anthems in Caribbean music history. Written by Nasio Fontaine himself, the song is a cry for spiritual resilience, detailing the struggle of being "under attack from friend and foe." Recorded in 1992 at the legendary Mixing Lab Studios in Kingston, Jamaica, this track features a powerhouse of talent. Nasio sought out the authentic Jamaican sound to bring his message of resistance and faith to life. While the album was recorded in '92, Nasio spent two years working odd jobs in St. Maarten to fund the pressing and distribution, finally releasing the CD in 1994 through Aphelion Productions. The lyrics reference "Mrs. Brown," a symbolic or literal figure representing those who attempt to "hold I down" or suppress the righteous. With its deep basslines and soulful female harmonies, "Under Attack" helped solidify Nasio’s reputation as the "Dominican Bob Marley," winning him international acclaim and the title of Best Reggae Album in 1996 from Reggae Roots International Magazine. Artist: Nasio Fontaine Album: Reggae Power Release Year: 1994 Recording Location: Mixing Lab Studios, Kingston, Jamaica Genre: Conscious Roots Reggae ✨ Don't forget to LIKE, SHARE, and FOLLOW for more timeless Reggae classics! ✨30 views 1 comment -
Jimmy Cliff - I Can See Clearly Now
Rasta Vibration"I Can See Clearly Now" is a song written and recorded by American singer-songwriter Johnny Nash. It was the lead single from his twelfth album, I Can See Clearly Now (1972), and achieved success in the United States and the United Kingdom when it was released in 1972, reaching number one on the US Billboard Hot 100 and Cash Box charts. It also reached number one in Canada and South Africa. The song has been covered by many artists throughout the years, including a hit version by Lee Towers that reached no. 19 in the Dutch Top 40 in 1982, and another recorded by Jimmy Cliff for the motion picture soundtrack of Cool Runnings that peaked at no. 18 on the US Billboard Hot 100 in 1993. Released : October 1993[21] Genre: Pop-reggae Length: 3:16 Label: Chaos Songwriter: Johnny Nash Producer: Paul Henton49 views -
Burning Spear - Jah Kingdom
Rasta VibrationArtist: Burning Spear Song: Jah Kingdom Album: Jah Kingdom Released: 1991 LYRICS: No matter where we go We are the lions in His kingdom No matter where we go We are the lions in His kingdom Lion in His kingdom Lion in His kingdom Dreadlock in His kingdom Rasta in His kingdom Love in His kingdom No matter where we go We are the lions in His kingdom No matter where we go We are the lions in His kingdom Lion in His kingdom Lies in His kingdom Eat in His kingdom Reason His kingdom Jah kingdom, yes, Jah kingdom Jah kingdom, yes, Jah kingdom Jah kingdom, yes, Jah kingdom Jah kingdom, yes, Jah kingdom No matter where we go We are the lions in His kingdom No matter where we go We are the lions in His kingdom Lion in his kingdom Fear no one in His kingdom Fear no one in His kingdom Nyah Binghi in His kingdom Twelve Tribe in His kingdom Bobo in his kingdom No matter where we go We are the lions in His kingdom No matter where we go We are the lions in his kingdom Lion in His kingdom Lion in His kingdom63 views -
🔥Burning Spear - Appointment With His Majesty (Official Audio)
Rasta VibrationAlbum: Appointment with His Majesty Artist: Burning Spear Released: 1997 Dive into the spiritual fire of Winston Rodney, better known as the legendary Burning Spear, with the iconic title track from his critically acclaimed album, "Appointment With His Majesty." Recorded in 1997 at the world-renowned Grove Music Studios in the hills of Ocho Rios, Jamaica, this track serves as a powerful testament to Spear’s unwavering commitment to the Rastafarian faith and the message of Marcus Garvey. In "Appointment With His Majesty," Burning Spear crafts a rhythmic bridge between the earthly and the divine, calling for a global spiritual gathering once Africa is liberated. The album was released on August 5, 1997, via Heartbeat Records and went on to earn a Grammy Award nomination for Best Reggae Album. The production features a lush, horn-heavy arrangement—a signature of the Spear sound—blending deep basslines with hypnotic percussion that transports the listener straight to the heart of the Caribbean. Support the channel! If you love this vibe, make sure to LIKE this video, share it with your community, and follow for more timeless reggae gems.71 views 1 comment -
Culture - Pay Day (Official Audio)
Rasta VibrationAlbum: Cumbolo Artist: Culture Released: 1979 Recorded At: The iconic Treasure Isle Recording Studio in Kingston, Jamaica. Production: Produced by the legendary Sonia Pottinger and mixed by Errol Brown. Musicians: Features an all-star lineup including the "Riddim Twins", Sly Dunbar and Robbie Shakespeare.85 views 2 comments -
Jimmy Cliff – You Can’t Be Wrong and Get Right
Rasta VibrationArtist: Jimmy Cliff Album: House of Exile Released: 1974 Experience the timeless wisdom of Jimmy Cliff in his powerful track, "You Can’t Be Wrong and Get Right." This soulful reggae anthem serves as a moral compass, delivering a message of integrity, truth, and the inescapable law of consequences. With its infectious rhythm and Cliff’s signature soaring vocals, the song remains a staple for fans of conscious roots music. This track was recorded in 1974. While Cliff recorded extensively at Channel I Studios and King Tubby’s Studios in Jamaica, as well as Burbank Studios in L.A. during this era, this specific track was a standout from his sessions for the Music Maker album. Originally featured on the Music Maker album (1974), it later appeared on the House of Exile (1974) and the comprehensive The EMI Years 1973-'75 collection. The track features legendary talent, including Jackie Jackson on bass, Hux Brown and Dad Bryan on guitar, and Winston Wright on keyboards. Cliff’s lyrics—"Anything that brings in darkness must come out in light"—continue to resonate as a universal truth, proving why he remains a global icon and a pioneer who brought reggae to the world stage.93 views 2 comments -
Burning Spear - Marcus Garvey
Rasta VibrationArtist: Burning Spear Genre: Reggae Release date: 12 December 1975 Label: Island Records Burning Spear’s "Marcus Garvey" is widely considered one of the greatest reggae songs—and albums—ever recorded. Released in 1975, this track serves as a powerful tribute to the Jamaican national hero and Pan-Africanist prophet, Marcus Garvey. This seminal work was recorded in early 1975 at the legendary Randy’s Recording Studio (Studio 17) in Kingston, Jamaica. It was produced by the visionary Lawrence "Jack Ruby" Lindo, who brought together an elite group of musicians known as The Black Disciples—including members of The Wailers and The Soul Syndicate. The song's haunting horn arrangements and Winston Rodney's (Burning Spear) chanting vocals created a "militant" roots sound that defined the era. While the original Jamaican mix on the Fox label was raw and heavy, Island Records later remixed it for international audiences to make it more "palatable," a decision that famously frustrated the artist but helped propel Burning Spear to global stardom. "Marcus Garvey" isn't just music; it’s a spiritual and political manifesto. It revitalized Garvey’s teachings for a new generation, focusing on themes of African heritage, black pride, and self-determination. Whether you're a lifelong fan or new to the genre, this track is an essential piece of cultural history. Don't forget to LIKE, FOLLOW, and SHARE to keep the fire burning! 🔥109 views -
Burning Spear - JAH IS REAL (Official Lyrics) | Grammy-Winning Roots Reggae Classic
Rasta VibrationArtist: Burning Spear Album: Jah Is Real Released: August 17, 2008 (Marcus Garvey's Birthday) This lyrical video brings Winston Rodney’s profound words to life, allowing you to follow every line of this spiritual anthem of resilience, faith, and independence. Released on August 17, 2008—strategically timed to coincide with the birthday of Marcus Garvey—the album went on to win the Grammy Award for Best Reggae Album in 2009. The track features Spear's signature deep roots sound, blending hypnotic nyabinghi rhythms with punchy brass arrangements. Recorded and mixed in 2008. The recording sessions took place at the iconic Magic Shop studio in New York City, the same location where he recorded his 2005 album Our Music. The album was produced by Winston Rodney himself and released through his independent label, Burning Music, marking his successful transition to full artistic and financial self-sufficiency. This song remains a staple for any roots reggae lover, featuring legendary guest musicians like Bootsy Collins and Bernie Worrell, who added their unique funk-inspired textures to Spear's timeless vibrations.104 views -
Feel The Vibration - Don Taylor | Rare 1979 Roots Reggae Classic (HQ Audio)
Rasta VibrationExperience the deep, soulful rhythms of "Feel The Vibration" by the legendary Don Taylor. Originally released in 1979, this track is a quintessential piece of Roots Reggae history that captures the spiritual and rhythmic essence of Jamaica’s golden era of music. "Feel The Vibration" is celebrated for its hypnotic bassline and smooth vocal delivery, characteristic of the late '70s reggae scene. The lyrics invite listeners to immerse themselves in the "sweet emotion" of the music, reflecting the era's focus on positive vibrations and cultural unity. While Don Taylor is often remembered in music history as the manager for Bob Marley, his own contributions as an artist provided the genre with rare gems like this one. The track was recorded in 1979, during the peak of the roots movement. The sessions took place in Kingston, Jamaica, the heartbeat of the reggae world. The single was originally pressed on the Solid Gold label and distributed through the famous Dynamic Sounds network at 187½ Spanish Town Road in Kingston. This high-quality audio upload preserves the authentic vinyl warmth of the original 7-inch release. Whether you are a lifelong reggae collector or a new fan of island sounds, let this classic track take you back to the roots of the vibration. Artists: DJ Karkiro, Don Taylor Album: Feel The Vibration Released: 1979 Genre: Reggae98 views 4 comments -
King Sounds & The Israelites - Reggae Rock Lullaby
Rasta Vibration"Reggae Rock Lullabye" is a notable track by the British-based reggae artist King Sounds (born Roy Livingstone Plummer), typically performing with his band, The Israelites. "Reggae Rock Lullaby" is celebrated for its protective and hopeful themes, speaking of dreaming of better mornings and the reassuring presence of a mother's love. It remains a staple for fans of 80s reggae and lovers' rock. Artist: King Sounds (Roy Livingstone Plummer) & The Israelites. Release Date: Originally released on January 1, 1985, as a 7" and 12" single. Album: Appears on the album "There Is A Reward." Writer/Producer: Roy Livingstone Plummer Label: King And The I (UK). Location: While King Sounds began his career in Jamaica, this track was recorded in the United Kingdom during his period with the King And The I label. King Sounds was a key figure in the London reggae scene, often recording at prominent UK studios like Easy Street Studios and The Fallout Shelter.67 views 2 comments