The Relationship Between Reggae Music and Rastafarianism

Recent news reported that some of Jamaica’s famous artists are soon to have their visas revoked. Successful names like Elephant Man, Aidonia, Ricky Trooper and Beenie Man are reportedly included in the memo that the United States Embassy in Kingston has issued. According to the report, the individuals mentioned in the note are not allowed to board flights that are bound for the U.S.

This has been a depressing update for reggae music lovers. However, the legacy of famous icons lives on. And several Jamaicans are still religious with their Rastafarian practices.

If you are wondering about the connection between Rastafarianism and reggae music, the answer is that both are introduced to the world because of Bob Marley and his group. He is considered as the most famous icon of the culture and the music genre. His influence on the industry is going strong. As a matter of fact, he is considered as the “King of Reggae”.

Bob Marley’s popularity brings about a lot of imitators, which changed Jamaica’s face of music. Musicians, who are looking up to the icon, are sporting dreadlocks and professing faith in Rastafari. Their songs are splashed with references to the Jamaican religion. Currently, this is how reggae music is seen by other artists and ordinary people around the world.

Today, Rastafarians are stereotyped as individuals that sport dreadlocks and listen to reggae songs. Artists try so hard to fit into the category and use terms like “Jah” or “Rasta”. They profess the faith to gain success in the music industry. For other people, they use it to justify their preference for marijuana.