The Impact of Reggae on Contemporary Music: From EDM to Hip-Hop

The impact of reggae music is extensive. Far more than just a music genre, it is the rhythm of defiance, and the starting point for innumerable subsequent styles.

Reggae, which originated on the streets of Kingston, Jamaica, has spread its messages of love, solidarity, and defiance all across the world. Reggae’s influence extends well beyond its roots in ska and rocksteady; it has influenced pop, hip-hop, electronic dance music (EDM), and even African genres like Afrobeats.

Heavy basslines, unusual rhythms, and socially aware lyrics are some of reggae’s defining characteristics, and they have influenced musicians from many genres and eras. Reggae has unquestionably influenced contemporary music, from the nascent stages of hip-hop in New York to the worldwide pop charts.. Let’s examine the ways in which this influential genre has influenced modern music.

Reggae’s Role in the Birth of Hip-Hop

It’s impossible to talk about reggae’s influence without mentioning hip-hop. The foundation of hip-hop music was laid in the 1970s when Jamaican immigrants introduced their sound system culture to New York. DJ Kool Herc, often credited as one of the founding figures of hip-hop, was inspired by the toasting style of Jamaican deejays—rhythmic spoken-word performances over instrumentals. This evolved into what we now call rapping.

In addition, the looping instrumentals and heavy basslines of reggae served as a model for early hip-hop production. Artists like KRS-One and Busta Rhymes openly embraced their Jamaican heritage, infusing reggae elements into their music. Hip-hop and reggae are still closely related today, as evidenced by the use of dancehall sounds and patois in the songs of artists like Drake, Jay-Z, and Nas.

Reggae’s Impact on Pop and Rock Music

The reggae beat has pulsed through mainstream pop and rock for decades. Bands like Blondie, UB40, and The Police experimented with reggae rhythms in the late 1970s and early 1980s, introducing the sound to audiences around the world.

Two timeless examples of pop songs with a reggae influence that are still popular today are “Walking on the Moon” by The Police and “Red Red Wine” by UB40 are classic examples of reggae-inspired pop hits that still resonate today.

Reggae fusion was later introduced into the alternative rock scene by musicians like Sublime and No Doubt, who helped to keep the genre in touch and innovative.

Even modern pop stars, including Rihanna and Ed Sheeran, have tapped into reggae’s infectious grooves. Sheeran’s “Shape of You” and Rihanna’s “Man Down” both have significant reggae influences, demonstrating that the spirit of the genre is still present in modern music.

Reggae and Electronic Music (EDM & Dubstep)

Reggae has also played a significant role in the development of electronic music. Dub, a subgenre of reggae that emerged in the 1970s, introduced remixing and heavy use of effects like reverb and delay—techniques that later became standard in EDM production.

In the early 2010s, reggae’s bass-heavy sound found a new home in dubstep.Deep bass drops and reggae-style rhythms were integrated into electronic tracks by producers like Skrillex and Rusko, culminating in a genre that stormed dance floors. Under Diplo’s direction, Major Lazer has become as one of the most prominent artists fusing dancehall, reggae, and EDM, opening up the genre to younger, worldwide audiences.

Reggae’s Influence on Afrobeats & Dancehall

Reggae and African music have a deeply intertwined history. The energetic cousin of reggae, dancehall, first gained prominence in Jamaica in the 1980s and has also inspired the rise of Afrobeats, the genre that now rules the African music scene.

Artists like Burna Boy and Wizkid openly acknowledge reggae and dancehall as key influences in their music. In turn, reggae has incorporated African percussive elements, creating in a highly inspiring relationship between the two genres. Reggae is now more vibrant and relevant worldwide than ever thanks to this cross-cultural interaction.

Mad Collective Connection’s Take on Reggae’s Evolution

Mad Collective Connection’s sound honors the rich history of reggae while evaluating its impact on contemporary music. Drawing inspiration from the various genres that roots reggae has influenced, our music remains loyal to its essence. We believe that reggae transcends cultures and generations and is more than just music.

We honor the pioneers of reggae while advancing the genre in a changing musical environment with our sound. 

Whether it’s a deep groove reminiscent of classic roots reggae or a rhythmic twist inspired by modern fusion, MCC keeps reggae’s flame burning bright.

In conclusion

There is no denying reggae’s influence on music around the world. Across borders and generations, reggae has impacted electronic and African music, and even hip-hop and mainstream. Its rhythms can still be recognized in today’s biggest hits, showing that reggae’s essence is still constantly present in contemporary music.