Jamaican Jazz & Blues

Meet the pioneering Jamaican jazz musicians who shaped the island’s sound. From Ernest Ranglin to Joe Harriott, discover…

When did jazz first arrive in Jamaica? Explore how U.S. radio, gramophone records, tourism, and World War II…

Discover how mento rhythms shaped early Jamaican jazz. Explore the fusion of folk offbeats, rumba box basslines, and…

Discover what makes Jamaican jazz unique — from mento-infused rhythms to storytelling in patois. Explore seven defining features…

Why is Jamaican jazz not globally famous like reggae? Explore the cultural, historical, and industry reasons behind its…

Explore how American blues influenced Jamaican music, from mento to ska, reggae, and dancehall. Learn how Jamaican musicians…

Discover the differences between Jamaican jazz and American jazz. Explore their roots, rhythms, instrumentation, cultural settings, and global…

Explore how mento — Jamaica’s folk foundation — evolved into jazz, creating a unique sound that bridged African…

Discover Jamaican jazz & blues — a soulful fusion of mento rhythms, American jazz, and blues influences that…