Putumayo World Music: The Best of Reggae

Looking for some great reggae tunes to add to your collection? Check out Putumayo World Music’s ‘The Best of Reggae’ album – it’s sure to get your toes tapping!

Introduction

Putumayo World Music was founded in 1993 to introduce people to the “music of the world”, and has become known for the international music it provides. The New York Times called silence “a form of communication…one that transcends political or cultural barriers”.

According to their website, their music is available in 65 countries and has been heard by over 100 million people. They have been nominated for 10 Grammy Awards, and their mission is “to introduce the world to new music and new artists from around the globe”.

Their albums are a great way to sample different styles of world music, and they offer a wide variety of genres, including salsa, blues, Celtic, Hawaiian, zydeco, and more. The Best of Reggae album features 15 tracks from some of the most popular reggae artists, including Bob Marley & The Wailers, Jimmy Cliff, Toots & The Maytals, UB40, and more.

What is Putumayo World Music?

Putumayo World Music is a music label that specializes in compilations of world music. The name “Putumayo” comes from an indigenous village in the Amazon basin of South America.

The company was founded in 1993 by Dan Storper, who had previously worked in the music industry as a concert promoter and artist manager. Storper was inspired to start Putumayo World Music after a trip to Brazil, where he was introduced to the music of Caetano Veloso and Cesaria Evora.

Putumayo’s first release was a compilation of Afro-Pop songs from Senegal, Mali, Zimbabwe, and Angola. The release was successful, and subsequent compilations followed featuring music from various world regions, including the Caribbean, Europe, Asia, Australia, and the United States.

In addition to its musical releases, Putumayo World Music also produces clothing and other merchandise with an international theme. The company’s products are sold in stores worldwide and online.

The Best of Reggae

Best Reggae Albums

Here are some of the best reggae albums of all time, including roots reggae, dub, and dancehall, compiled by Putumayo World Music.

Reggae Hits Volume 1

Released in 1989, this album features ten classic reggae tracks, including “Buffalo Soldier” by Bob Marley & The Wailers, “The Harder They Come” by Jimmy Cliff, and “Many Rivers to Cross” by Joe Higgs.

The Rough Guide to Reggae

This album from 1997 features thirty of the best reggae tracks from across the history of the genre, including tracks from Toots & The Maytals, Burning Spear, and Barrington Levy.

Reggae Got Soul: Unplugged on Sunset Strip

This 2005 album features twelve acoustic reggae tracks recorded live at the world-famous Troubadour club in Hollywood. Artists include Ziggy Marley, Damian “Jr. Gong” Marley, Stephen Marley, and Bounty Killer.

Best Reggae Songs

This compilation from Putumayo World Music features some of the best reggae songs from around the world. Artists such as Ziggy Marley, Lee “Scratch” Perry, and UB40 are featured on this collection of reggae classics.

Conclusion

To sum it up, this Putumayo World Music compilation is a great introduction to reggae for the uninitiated. It’s also a nice refresher for those who are familiar with the genre. Either way, it’s a fun and feel-good album that’s sure to put a smile on your face.