Women in Jamaican Music: Heather Augustyn

Women have played a vital role in the development of Jamaican music, from its roots in traditional folk music to its modern manifestations in reggae, dancehall, and other genres. This book tells the stories of these women, from the pioneering vocalists of the 1950s to the contemporary stars of today. It is a must-read for anyone interested in Jamaican music or the history of women in music.

Women in Jamaican Music

by Heather Augustyn

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	6569 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Print length	:	491 pages

FREE

The Early Years

The early years of Jamaican music were dominated by men. However, there were a few women who began to make their mark on the scene. One of the most notable was Louise Bennett, who is considered the "mother of Jamaican music." Bennett was a poet, singer, and songwriter who wrote some of the most iconic songs in Jamaican history, including "Jamaica Farewell" and "Day-O (The Banana Boat Song)." Another important figure from this era was Millie Small, who had a huge international hit with her song "My Boy Lollipop" in 1964.

The Ska Era

The ska era of the 1960s saw a number of women emerge as leading figures in Jamaican music. One of the most popular was Phyllis Dillon, who was known for her powerful vocals and energetic stage presence. Another important figure was Doreen Shaffer, who was a member of the Skatalites, one of the most influential ska bands of all time. Shaffer was a talented vocalist and saxophonist, and she helped to define the sound of ska.

The Rocksteady Era

The rocksteady era of the late 1960s saw a number of women achieve success as solo artists. One of the most successful was Alton Ellis, who had a number of hits, including "Rocksteady" and "Girl I've Got a Date." Another important figure was Marcia Griffiths, who was a member of the group The Soulettes. Griffiths went on to have a successful solo career, and she is considered one of the greatest female singers in Jamaican music history.

The Reggae Era

The reggae era of the 1970s saw a number of women emerge as leading figures in Jamaican music. One of the most popular was Rita Marley, who was the wife of Bob Marley. Rita Marley was a talented singer and songwriter, and she helped to popularize reggae around the world. Another important figure was Marcia Griffiths, who continued to have success as a solo artist during this era. Griffiths was known for her powerful vocals and her ability to connect with audiences.

The Dancehall Era

The dancehall era of the 1980s and 1990s saw a number of women achieve success as deejays. One of the most popular was Lady Saw, who was known for her raunchy lyrics and aggressive delivery. Another important figure was Sister Nancy, who was one of the first female deejays to achieve mainstream success. Sister Nancy was known for her conscious lyrics and her ability to connect with audiences.

The Contemporary Era

The contemporary era of Jamaican music has seen a number of women emerge as leading figures. One of the most popular is Spice, who is known for her catchy songs and her energetic stage presence. Another important figure is Shenseea, who is known for her sultry vocals and her ability to connect with audiences. Shenseea has become one of the most successful female artists in Jamaican music history.

Women have played a vital role in the development of Jamaican music, from its roots in traditional folk music to its modern manifestations in reggae, dancehall, and other genres. This book tells the stories of these women, from the pioneering vocalists of the 1950s to the contemporary stars of today. It is a must-read for anyone interested in Jamaican music or the history of women in music.

Women in Jamaican Music

by Heather Augustyn

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	6569 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Print length	:	491 pages

FREE