7 Female Reggae Artists You Should Know

Reggae exploded out of Jamaica with such force and such distinctive style that it became a global music phenomenon. The most famous names in reggae are men, but women have contributed as much, often more to this genre of music. On stage, female reggae artists project pure power and passion, and they should be better known. Here are some of the female reggae artists to take note of.

Tanya Stephens

Superbly talented, Tanya Stephens lays her hypnotic melodious voice over some old-school riddims so naturally that you know she was born to be a reggae artist. Not afraid to mix in some dancehall effects, Stephens keeps it fresh without losing her roots. She’s a highly recommended introduction for those just discovering the fantastic females of reggae.

Etana

Lady Saw

Tough and in your face, Lady Saw caught some international attention with her Grammy award-winning collaboration with No Doubt. But to really appreciate her best work, delve into what she’s done solo. Lady Saw has a hypnotic voice and flawless rhythm that is impossible to ignore – she compels you to move. You’ve got to love the opening line on Informer: “you been talking too much, keep your mouth shut”.

Rita Marley

The Queen of Reggae, Alpharita Constantia Marley, raised in Trench Town in Kingston, Jamaica, was destined for musical greatness. After winning early awards for her childhood performances, there was only one way she would go. She was already a successful young artist when she met her now better known husband Bob – they married in 1966. Rita continued her solo career while also providing vocals for the I-Threes and the Wailers. Rita is rightfully known as the Queen of Reggae – having made history with the first reggae song to top the Billboard disco charts; and having been the first reggae artist to perform for a Grammy audience. She has produced a number of successful albums and heads the Rita Marley Foundation, alleviating poverty in developing countries. Timeless and generous.

Lady G

Lady G will get you moving, guaranteed. Relentlessly fun and energetic, Lady G is a talented DJ and vocalist who will put a smile on the face of anyone who cares to listen. Drifting into hip-hop without letting go of her grip on reggae, Lady G rides some classic riddims with a sort of deceptive ease that is indicative of true talent. Prepare to be entertained.

Kelissa

Neo-Roots reggae artist Kelissa is keeping reggae fresh with an unmistakable polished sound. She has a seductive smoothness to her fantastic voice that glides above the distinctive roots reggae beat that grounds the music. Heavily influenced by her experience in Africa, Kelissa’s music has a depth and meaning to its message. Engage with the world through conscious positivity – Kelissa will show you the way.
https://youtu.be/XngVIzyBc4I

Sevana

Time for something new – Sevana’s eponymous debut album was released to great excitement in 2016. Mentored and produced by Protoje, Sevana has excellent pedigree and looks set to be one of the big female names in Jamaican music. Her voice has a classic sound that projects an engaging emotional energy. She’s recorded some superb melodic ballads and looks set to be a big name in reggae. Stay current with Sevana.

Since you are here, we would like to share our vision for the future of travel - and the direction Culture Trip is moving in.

Culture Trip launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful — and this is still in our DNA today. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes certain places and communities so special.

Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

Culture Trips are deeply immersive 5 to 16 days itineraries, that combine authentic local experiences, exciting activities and 4-5* accommodation to look forward to at the end of each day. Our Rail Trips are our most planet-friendly itineraries that invite you to take the scenic route, relax whilst getting under the skin of a destination. Our Private Trips are fully tailored itineraries, curated by our Travel Experts specifically for you, your friends or your family.

We know that many of you worry about the environmental impact of travel and are looking for ways of expanding horizons in ways that do minimal harm - and may even bring benefits. We are committed to go as far as possible in curating our trips with care for the planet. That is why all of our trips are flightless in destination, fully carbon offset - and we have ambitious plans to be net zero in the very near future.