Narratives from Beyond the UK Reggae Bassline: The System is Sound

The book explores the history of reggae in modern Britain, from its emergence in the 1970s to its influence on popular music and culture. It highlights the struggle and ingenuity of the Afro-Caribbean community in the UK and its contribution to the development of reggae.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 320 pages
Publication date: 27 November 2021
Publisher: Springer Nature Switzerland AG

Reggae, a musical genre that originated in Jamaica and gained popularity in the United Kingdom in the 1970s, has a rich and complex history. This book delves into the evolution of reggae in modern Britain, examining how it emerged as a cultural force and how it was received and transmitted by the Afro-Caribbean community in the UK.

From its roots in ska and rocksteady, reggae evolved into a distinctive sound characterized by its slow, laid-back rhythms and socially conscious lyrics. In the 1970s, reggae gained popularity among black youth in urban areas, particularly in London. Deejays played a crucial role in popularizing reggae, using their sound systems to showcase the music and attract large crowds.

Reggae not only reflected the experiences of black youth but also had a significant impact on the wider culture. It influenced the sounds and language of popular music, and its themes of social justice, resistance, and empowerment resonated with people across different social backgrounds. Reggae also retained a connection to the street-level sound systems, clubs, and centers that provided space for creativity, protest, and innovation.

This book is a testament to the struggle and ingenuity of the reggae community in Britain. It comprises a collection of essays that trace the importance of reggae to both the culture and the politics of late twentieth and early twenty-first century Britain. The authors explore various aspects of reggae, including its musical influences, lyrical themes, and cultural impact. They also discuss the role of reggae in shaping the identity of black youth and its contribution to the broader social and political movements of the time.

Reggae continues to be a vibrant and influential genre in British music, with new artists and bands emerging every year. Its legacy continues to inspire and shape the cultural landscape of the UK, and its influence can be heard in the sounds of popular music across the world. This book provides a valuable insight into the history and significance of reggae in modern Britain, and it is a must-read for anyone interested in music, culture, and social history.

Weight: 440g
Dimension: 149 x 210 x 24 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783030551636
Edition number: 1st ed. 2021