Solid Foundation: An oral history of reggae

Solid Foundation is a comprehensive history of Jamaican reggae, featuring over 300 first-hand interviews and updated to the 21st century.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 688 pages
Publication date: 04 July 2024
Publisher: Orion Publishing Co

Solid Foundation: The Definitive History of Jamaican Reggae
Jamaican reggae has a rich and storied history, and Solid Foundation is the definitive book that chronicles its evolution from its earliest pioneers to the stars of the 21st century. Drawing on more than 300 first-hand interviews with legendary figures such as Lee "Scratch" Perry and Augustus Pablo, this landmark book provides a comprehensive overview of Jamaican popular music, including ska, rock steady, roots reggae, dub, dancehall, ragga, and more.

First published in 2004, Solid Foundation has been revised and updated to bring the story into the 21st century. It has been reissued as part of White Rabbit's Deep Cuts series, which focuses on the most influential and groundbreaking albums in music history.

The book begins with the origins of reggae in Jamaica in the late 1950s and early 1960s, when musicians began to blend African rhythms with American soul and jazz. It then traces the development of ska, rock steady, and roots reggae, which became the foundation of Jamaican music. Ska was characterized by its upbeat tempo and catchy melodies, while rock steady was slower and more laid-back. Roots reggae, on the other hand, focused on social and political issues and was characterized by its deep bass lines and spiritual lyrics.

Dub, dancehall, and ragga are all subgenres of reggae that emerged in the 1970s and 1980s. Dub is a slower, more atmospheric version of reggae that emphasizes the use of effects and dubbing, while dancehall is a faster, more energetic style that is popular in clubs and parties. Ragga is a fusion of reggae, hip-hop, and dancehall that emerged in the 1980s and is characterized by its fast-paced beats and catchy lyrics.

Solid Foundation also explores the impact of Jamaican reggae on the world. It discusses the influence of Jamaican music on the development of hip-hop, dance music, and other genres, and how it has been used to promote social and political causes. It also highlights the contributions of Jamaican musicians to the music industry, including Bob Marley, Peter Tosh, and Sizzla.

One of the key strengths of Solid Foundation is its ability to provide a detailed and nuanced account of the history of Jamaican reggae. The book is written in a clear and engaging style, and it includes a wealth of historical photographs and illustrations. It also includes interviews with musicians, producers, and industry insiders, which provide a unique perspective on the music and its impact.

However, Solid Foundation is not without its flaws. Some critics have argued that the book is too focused on the early years of Jamaican reggae and does not give enough attention to the later developments of the genre. Additionally, some of the interviews with musicians can be repetitive and lack depth.

Despite these flaws, Solid Foundation remains a valuable resource for anyone interested in the history of Jamaican reggae. It provides a comprehensive overview of the genre's evolution, and it includes a wealth of historical information and interviews with musicians and industry insiders. It is a must-read for anyone who loves music and wants to learn more about the history of Jamaican reggae.

In conclusion, Solid Foundation is the definitive history of Jamaican reggae, from its earliest pioneers to the stars of the 21st century. Drawing on more than 300 first-hand interviews with legendary figures, this landmark book provides a comprehensive overview of Jamaican popular music, including ska, rock steady, roots reggae, dub, dancehall, ragga, and more. It has been revised and updated to bring the story into the 21st century and has been reissued as part of White Rabbit's Deep Cuts series. While it is not without its flaws, it remains a valuable resource for anyone interested in the history of Jamaican reggae.

Weight: 502g
Dimension: 197 x 130 x 41 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781399606141