The 1990s was a transformative period for reggae and dancehall, blending island rhythms with mainstream music to create timeless tracks. While some of these artists are often overshadowed by newer sounds, their legacy continues to thrive. Whenever these acts hit the speakers, the nostalgia kicks in, reminding us why they dominated the charts back then and remain relevant today. Here’s a look at five iconic reggae acts from the 90s and their achievements.
1. Damian Marley
Damian “Jr. Gong” Marley is the youngest son of the legendary Bob Marley, and since the mid-90s, he has cemented himself as a powerhouse in the reggae and dancehall world. His breakthrough came with the critically acclaimed album Welcome to Jamrock (2005), which won two Grammy Awards for Best Reggae Album and Best Urban/Alternative Performance.
Beyond his awards, Damian Marley has successfully blended traditional reggae with modern influences, pushing the genre forward while staying true to its roots. Hits like “Welcome to Jamrock,” “Road to Zion,” and “Affairs of the Heart” have become anthems of reggae revival, and he continues to tour and collaborate with global artists, bringing reggae to new audiences. His ability to carry forward the Marley legacy while creating his own path has made him an enduring figure in the reggae scene.
2. Apache Indian
Born in the UK, Apache Indian (Steven Kapur) was a pioneer in blending reggae with bhangra, dancehall, and hip-hop. His 1993 hit “Boom Shack-A-Lak” became a global sensation, being featured in films, commercials, and video games, cementing his place in pop culture history.
His ability to cross cultural and musical boundaries made him one of the most unique artists of the 90s. Apache Indian’s contributions to fusing reggae with Indian and Western sounds earned him nominations for the Brit Awards and *Mercury Prize, a rare feat for a reggae artist. Hits like *”Arranged Marriage” and “Chok There” continue to resonate today, particularly with fans of multicultural music. Apache Indian’s innovation helped lay the groundwork for future genre-blending in global music.
3. Shaggy
Perhaps one of the most successful reggae artists to emerge from the 90s, Shaggy became a household name with his infectious voice and unforgettable hits. His 1993 hit “Oh Carolina” launched him to international stardom, followed by “Boombastic” in 1995, which won him a Grammy Award for Best Reggae Album. He later released “It Wasn’t Me” in 2000, one of the most iconic songs of the era, solidifying his reputation.
Shaggy’s laid-back, feel-good sound has made him one of reggae’s most enduring global ambassadors. His albums have gone platinum multiple times, and he remains active in the music scene, collaborating with major artists like Sting. Shaggy’s combination of catchy hooks and smooth reggae beats keeps his music relevant today, ensuring that tracks like “Angel” and “Boombastic” will forever be reggae classics.
4. Daddy Yankee
Though known primarily for pioneering reggaeton, Daddy Yankee’s early career was steeped in reggae and dancehall influences. His rise to fame came in the mid-90s as he mixed reggae beats with Latin rhythms, creating a unique sound that would eventually evolve into reggaeton. His 2004 hit “Gasolina” brought him worldwide fame, marking the official explosion of reggaeton on a global scale.
Daddy Yankee has won numerous awards, including *Latin Grammy Awards, **Billboard Music Awards, and **American Music Awards, solidifying his status as one of the most influential artists of the 21st century. Songs like *”Lo Que Pasó, Pasó,” “Rompe,” and “Gasolina” are still guaranteed to light up any party, transporting listeners back to the roots of reggaeton while honoring the reggae and dancehall elements that shaped his sound.
5. Big Mountain
Big Mountain’s smooth reggae-pop fusion brought reggae into the mainstream with their unforgettable cover of Peter Frampton’s “Baby, I Love Your Way” in 1994. The song became an international hit, reaching the top of the charts in multiple countries and introducing reggae to a wider audience.
The band’s unique style of blending reggae with pop and rock influences earned them massive success throughout the 90s, making them a staple on radio and TV. While they didn’t win major awards like their peers, Big Mountain’s influence on reggae-pop is undeniable. Their hits, including “Touch My Light” and “Sweet Sensual Love,” are still beloved by fans of laid-back, soulful reggae vibes. Big Mountain continues to tour and release music, keeping the nostalgia alive for those who grew up with their sound.
These five artists may have emerged in the 90s, but their impact has far outlasted the decade. Whether through groundbreaking innovation or timeless classics, Damian Marley, Apache Indian, Shaggy, Daddy Yankee, and Big Mountain have kept the spirit of reggae alive, reminding us of the genre’s ability to evolve while maintaining its soulful core. When their music blasts from the speakers, it’s more than just a throwback—it’s a reminder of reggae’s lasting influence on global music.