This one-hour mix delves into a golden era when Jamaican artists reimagined soul, R&B, and pop songs, infusing them with the heartbeat of reggae. But these weren’t just covers—they were cultural translations where the soul of America met the rhythm of Jamaica.
Why Covers Mattered in the Early Days of Reggae
In the 1960s and 70s, Jamaica’s music scene was still young but already bursting with creativity. The local industry lacked the large studios, labels, and international reach of places like Detroit, Chicago, or London. What it had, however, was hunger—a deep well of talent and an audience ready to vibe.
Covering popular American hits became a bridge. It offered:
Instant recognition – Listeners knew the songs but got a fresh take on reggae’s swing and groove.
Studio training – Artists and musicians honed their craft by interpreting melodies and arrangements in new styles.
Market access – Radio DJs and sound systems embraced these familiar tunes, giving them more rotation and helping local artists break through.
A Jamaican Motown Emerges
By adapting hits from The Temptations, Curtis Mayfield, Marvin Gaye, and Dusty Springfield, reggae artists not only followed trends—they created new versions that sometimes outshone the originals. This period was Jamaica’s version of Motown: full of harmony groups, influential solo singers, and producers who knew how to craft timeless magic.
Artists like:
Alton Ellis, often referred to as the "Godfather of Rocksteady," lent tracks like “You’ve Made Me So Very Happy” a heart-wrenching edge.
Ken Boothe’s take on “Everything I Own” topped the UK charts.
Phyllis Dillon transformed “Love the One You’re With” into a soulful, reggae-drenched anthem.
Bob & Marcia’s duet “Ain’t Nothing Like the Real Thing” added new sweetness to an already sweet classic.
These weren’t just reinterpretations. They were reimaginings—infused with the lived experiences, struggles, and joys of island life.
Global Impact
These songs didn't stay in Jamaica. They traveled:
Across the Caribbean via sound systems.
To London through the Windrush generation and Trojan Records.
Worldwide as reggae exploded in popularity by the mid-70s.
For many global listeners, these covers were their first introduction to reggae. It opened doors. And once inside, people discovered the depth of Jamaican songwriting—from roots and lovers rock to militant dub.
The Mix
This mix is a soulful nod to that time. From Delroy Wilson’s “Get Ready” to Hortense Ellis’ “Just One Look,” every track is a reminder of how soul and reggae are cousins—each rooted in rhythm, emotion, and truth.
Whether you're discovering these versions for the first time or revisiting old favorites, Reggae Got Soul is a love letter to a time when music crossed oceans and borders—and came back with a bassline.
PLAYLIST
Delroy Wilson – Get Ready
Bob Andy – Too Proud to Beg
Alton Ellis – You've Made Me So Very Happy
The Techniques – I Wish It Would Rain
Ken Boothe – Everything I Own (7'' Mix)
Al Brown – Here I Am Baby (Come And Take Me)
Phyllis Dillon & The Tommy McCook Band – Woman of the Ghetto (Original Mix)
Ken Boothe – Ain’t No Sunshine
Nicky Thomas – Rainy Night In Georgia
Alton Ellis & Tommy McCook & The Supersonics – Breaking Up (Is Hard to Do)
Junior Murvin – Give Me Your Love
The Heptones – Our Day Will Come
The Silvertones – Midnight Hour
Ken Boothe – Let’s Get It On
Bob & Marcia – Ain’t Nothing Like the Real Thing
Dave Barker & The Upsetters – Prisoner of Love
Busty Brown – To Love Somebody
Phyllis Dillon – Love the One You’re With
John Holt – Sister Big Stuff
Alton Ellis – Too Late to Turn Back Now
Keith & Tex – Don’t Look Back
Hortense Ellis – Just One Look
Share this post