Florida On Sale

The Sounds of Jamaica

Jamaica is the sparkling jewel in the Caribbean crown. It is the land of endless beaches, rolling surf, and bright sun. It is also known for its heart-rending music. Slaves from Africa were bought to work in British-owned sugar plantations. These people brought in their culture, religious beliefs, language, and music with them. Their saga portraying their hardships and the struggle for freedom is expressed in their songs.

Incorporated into the daily lifestyle, folk songs reverberate everywhere on this Caribbean island. A pot pourri of mento, blues, reggae, dancehall, African soul, blues and rhythm, rock and roll, and fusion music can be heard in bars, clubs, restaurants, and hotels throughout Jamaica.

Calypso music, native to Trinidad, a neighboring island in the Caribbean Sea, is a blend of African beats and European rhythm. Once banned because its lyrics contained political overtures, it is played on string instruments to the accompaniment of drums, and is today an integral part of Jamaica’s music scene. Harry Belafonte made Calypso international with “Day-O” from the Banana Boat Song.

Bob Marley, famous for his soul searching renditions and revered as the “Father of Reggae,” was born in the Caribbean coastal town of St. Ann in Jamaica. It was he who revolutionized local folk music and introduced the sounds of reggae to the world.

Visitors and music lovers planning a trip to the Caribbean should include Jamaica in their itinerary as it plays host to a number of music fests. The annual Heritage Fest in fall showcases the diverse culture of this island nation through its music, dance, multi-cuisine food, and festivities. International Reggae Day is celebrated in with great pomp and ceremony with live TV and internet telecasts. The whole country, residents and international visitors alike, takes part in this carnival to pay tribute to Bob Marley, the Reggae King, with live concerts, talent shows, music contests, and workshops.

This entry was posted on Friday, June 12th, 2009 at 12:02 pm and is filed under Adventure Stuff, Lots Of Travel Resources. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. Both comments and pings are currently closed.