Jamaica is known worldwide for its reggae and dancehall roots, but there’s another vibrant music scene brewing—one where hip-hop and reggae collide in fresh, innovative ways. At the forefront of this movement is Nomad Carlos, a Kingston-born rapper whose lyricism and storytelling bring a unique flavor to the global hip-hop landscape. Blending the rhythm of reggae with the grit of hip-hop, Nomad Carlos is an artist redefining what it means to be a Jamaican MC.

Who is Nomad Carlos?

Nomad Carlos is not your typical Jamaican artist. While dancehall and reggae dominate the island’s mainstream music scene, he has carved out his own lane by fusing hip-hop’s raw storytelling with his Jamaican roots. Born and raised in Kingston, he grew up absorbing both reggae’s rhythm and hip-hop’s lyricism, shaping his distinct sound. With a knack for deep, introspective bars, he stands out as one of the most compelling voices in the Caribbean’s growing hip-hop scene.

Signature Sound and Influences

What makes Nomad Carlos special is his ability to blend cultures. His music carries the soul of reggae but is driven by the hard-hitting beats and intricate lyricism of hip-hop. Influenced by artists like Nas, Wu-Tang Clan, and Damian Marley, he seamlessly weaves together gritty street tales, reflections on Jamaican life, and global perspectives.

Notable Tracks and Projects

Nomad Carlos has built a solid discography over the years, releasing multiple projects that showcase his lyrical prowess. Some standout tracks include:

• “War Repertoire” – A thought-provoking track that highlights the realities of street life in Kingston.
• “As Real As It Gets” – A song where he lays down raw lyricism over a mellow yet captivating beat.
• “Duppy Mecca” – A fusion of dark, haunting production with sharp, introspective bars.

His projects, including Cipher, Element of Surprise, and The Nomad Carlos Project, offer listeners a deeper dive into his artistry, with themes ranging from self-discovery to reflections on Jamaican society.

Lyrical Depth and Message

Unlike many mainstream dancehall artists, Nomad Carlos is a storyteller at heart. His music delves into the struggles, triumphs, and nuances of Jamaican life from a perspective not often explored in reggae or dancehall. Through his lyrics, he sheds light on both the beauty and the hardships of his home country, making his music relatable to listeners far beyond Jamaica’s borders.

The Future of Nomad Carlos

As the Caribbean hip-hop scene continues to grow, Nomad Carlos remains at its forefront. His ability to merge reggae’s rhythm with hip-hop’s storytelling has earned him respect not just in Jamaica but also in international circles. With ongoing collaborations and new music in the works, he is poised to gain even greater recognition in the coming years.

Final Thoughts

Nomad Carlos represents a fresh, innovative take on Jamaican music. By bridging the gap between reggae and hip-hop, he is paving the way for a new generation of artists who refuse to be confined by genre labels. Whether you’re a hip-hop enthusiast or a reggae purist, his music offers something unique and powerful.

Have you listened to Nomad Carlos? Share your favorite tracks in the comments below!

Yeza is a fierce and dynamic reggae-dancehall artist known for her powerful voice, socially conscious lyrics, and unapologetic delivery. Emerging from Kingston, Jamaica, she has built a reputation as a strong advocate for empowerment, self-love, and social justice through her music.

Her sound is deeply rooted in reggae but infused with dancehall energy and a modern twist. Yeza’s lyrics often tackle themes of resilience, female empowerment, and societal issues, making her stand out as an artist with purpose and depth. One of her notable tracks, “Jungle,” is a hard-hitting anthem that speaks on the struggles of survival and overcoming adversity in a challenging world.

Yeza has been compared to some of reggae’s great female voices, yet she brings a fresh and bold approach that resonates with younger audiences. She has also embraced an Afrocentric aesthetic and message, emphasizing pride in her roots and culture.

As an independent artist, Yeza continues to push boundaries, using her platform to inspire and uplift. Her music isn’t just for entertainment—it’s a movement. If you’re looking for an artist with a strong message and captivating energy, Yeza is one to watch.

Naomi Cowan is a rising star in the Jamaican music scene, blending reggae, pop, and R&B to create a modern yet authentic sound. She is the daughter of reggae legends Carlene Davis and Tommy Cowan, which gives her deep roots in the industry, but she has carved out her own unique path as an artist.

Her breakout hit, “Paradise Plum,” was a refreshing take on contemporary reggae, earning her recognition both locally and internationally. With her smooth vocals, catchy melodies, and positive energy, Naomi brings a vibrant presence to the music scene. She has also collaborated with other Jamaican artists and continues to push creative boundaries, infusing elements of soul and pop into her reggae foundation.

Beyond her music, Naomi is known for her uplifting messages and advocacy for self-love and empowerment. Whether through her lyrics or her charismatic personality, she radiates positivity an.d growth, making her an artist to watch as she continues to rise.

Are you a Naomi Cowan fan yet? Check her out.

Jamaica has long been a powerhouse of musical talent, birthing global legends like Bob Marley, Sean Paul, and Shaggy. While reggae and dancehall remain the island’s dominant genres, a new wave of Jamaican artists is emerging, pushing creative boundaries and fusing genres in innovative ways. Some of these artists are yet to receive mainstream recognition but are steadily making their mark. Here are some of the most underrated Jamaican artists you should be listening to right now.

Jamaica has long been a powerhouse of musical talent, birthing global legends like Bob Marley, Sean Paul, and Shaggy. While reggae and dancehall remain the island’s dominant genres, a new wave of Jamaican artists is emerging, pushing creative boundaries and fusing genres in innovative ways. Some of these artists are yet to receive mainstream recognition but are steadily making their mark. Here are some of the most underrated Jamaican artists you should be listening to right now.

1. Runkus

Runkus is a genre-bending artist blending reggae, hip-hop, and jazz to create a unique sound. With thought-provoking lyrics and an effortless flow, he brings a fresh perspective to Jamaica’s music scene. His album Inside showcases his lyrical prowess and versatility, making him one to watch.

2. Lila Iké

Though gaining traction, Lila Iké is still relatively underrated compared to her potential. She blends soulful reggae with elements of R&B, delivering a soothing yet powerful sound. Tracks like “Second Chance” and “Where I’m Coming From” highlight her rich vocal ability and storytelling skills.

3. Blvk H3ro

Blvk H3ro is known for his conscious lyrics and modern reggae sound. His music promotes positivity and social awareness while maintaining an infectious groove. Songs like “Feet Don’t Fail” and “Annabella” demonstrate his versatility and commitment to uplifting messages.

4. Royal Blu

A lyricist at heart, Royal Blu seamlessly infuses reggae with hip-hop, giving his music a fresh and contemporary feel. His ability to switch between smooth melodies and rapid-fire bars sets him apart. Songs like “Style & Pattern” showcase his effortless delivery and unique sound.

5. Sevana

Sevana’s soulful voice and compelling storytelling make her a standout talent. A protégé of Protoje, she delivers a refreshing blend of reggae, R&B, and pop. Tracks like “Mango” and “Nobody Man” reveal her ability to craft catchy yet deeply emotional music.

6. Zac Jone$

With a cool, laid-back flow and sharp lyricism, Zac Jone$ merges dancehall and hip-hop seamlessly. His collaboration with Jesse Royal on “Miss Jamaica” highlights his knack for blending modern sounds with classic Jamaican influences.

7. Naomi Cowan

Daughter of reggae legends Carlene Davis and Tommy Cowan, Naomi Cowan is carving her own path with a mix of reggae, pop, and R&B. Her track “Paradise Plum” is a fan favorite, showcasing her smooth vocals and contemporary style.

8. The Nomad Carlos

Bringing a Jamaican flavor to hip-hop, Nomad Carlos is a Kingston-born rapper who has been making waves in the underground scene. His music delivers gritty storytelling and sharp lyricism, giving listeners a fresh take on Caribbean rap.

9. Yeza

Yeza is a fierce reggae-dancehall artist with conscious lyrics and an unapologetic delivery. Her music speaks to social justice, empowerment, and self-love. Tracks like “Jungle” showcase her boldness and authenticity.

10. Joby Jay

Joby Jay’s unique sound fuses reggae with blues and jazz, creating a soulful yet refreshing listening experience. Her raw and honest lyricism, combined with her powerful voice, makes her an artist worth following.

Final Thoughts

The Jamaican music scene is continuously evolving, and these artists are at the forefront of that change. While they may not yet have reached mainstream international success, their talent is undeniable. Whether you’re a reggae purist, dancehall enthusiast, or just looking for fresh sounds, these underrated Jamaican artists deserve a spot on your playlist.

Who’s your favorite underrated Jamaican artist? Drop a comment below and let’s celebrate the future of Jamaican music!

Both Shaggy and Chronixx have played a significant role in keeping traditional Jamaican sounds alive while modernizing them for contemporary audiences. Though they are known primarily for dancehall and reggae, they have incorporated elements of ska, mento, and other classic Jamaican styles into their music.

Shaggy – Blending Dancehall, Reggae & Ska Influences

Early Career & Ska Influence

Shaggy (Orville Burrell) emerged in the early 1990s as a dancehall artist, but his music has always carried elements of ska and mento. His deep, gravelly voice and playful delivery are reminiscent of old-school ska artists like Prince Buster.

Ska & Mento Influences in Shaggy’s Music:

1. “Oh Carolina” (1993) – This was Shaggy’s breakout hit, and it is a direct ska-mento fusion.
   • Originally recorded by The Folkes Brothers in 1960, “Oh Carolina” was one of the earliest ska songs, produced by Prince Buster.
   • Shaggy’s version updated it with a dancehall beat while preserving its mento-style hand drumming and rhythm.
   • This song was a bridge between old-school ska and the digital dancehall sound of the 90s.
2. Collaboration with Sting on 44/876 (2018) – A Tribute to Ska & Reggae
   • Shaggy teamed up with Sting, the former lead singer of The Police, to create an album that blends reggae, ska, and rock influences.
   • Songs like “Morning Is Coming” and “Don’t Make Me Wait” feature upbeat ska rhythms, horn sections, and offbeat guitar strumming that pay homage to Jamaica’s early music styles.

Shaggy’s Impact on Ska Revival

• By covering classic ska and mento songs and fusing them with dancehall, Shaggy has helped introduce traditional Jamaican sounds to new generations.
• His collaborations with international artists like Sting have also kept ska alive in global pop culture.

Chronixx – The Reggae Revivalist with Ska Roots

Chronixx (Jamar McNaughton) is a leader in the “Reggae Revival” movement, a new wave of artists bringing back roots reggae with a modern twist. Though he is primarily a reggae singer, many of his songs carry ska elements, especially in rhythm, melody, and instrumentation.

Ska & Traditional Influences in Chronixx’s Music:

1. “Smile Jamaica” (2013) – A Modern Ska-Inspired Anthem
   • This song features a bouncy rhythm and a horn section, reminiscent of old-school ska music.
   • While it is primarily a reggae tune, the beat and tempo lean heavily towards rocksteady and first-wave ska.
2. “Skankin’ Sweet” (2017) – Bringing Back the Skank
   • The word “skankin’” is directly tied to ska culture, referring to the dance moves associated with the genre.
   • The song has a laid-back rocksteady groove, showing how Chronixx keeps the ska-reggae connection alive.
3. Live Performances & Band Arrangements
   • Chronixx often performs with live bands that include brass sections, similar to traditional ska bands like The Skatalites.
   • His music videos and live shows frequently reference ska fashion and dance styles from Jamaica’s early days.

Chronixx’s Influence on Ska & Reggae Fusion

• Chronixx blends old-school reggae, ska, and rocksteady with contemporary themes, keeping traditional sounds fresh for modern listeners.
• His lyrics promote consciousness and positivity, similar to early ska artists who used music for social commentary.
• By working with international artists and bringing horn sections and offbeat rhythms back into reggae, he ensures that ska’s influence continues in modern Jamaican music.

How Shaggy & Chronixx Keep Traditional Jamaican Music Alive

Final Thoughts

Both Shaggy and Chronixx prove that ska and mento are still alive in today’s music scene. Whether through direct covers (Oh Carolina), ska-inspired grooves (Smile Jamaica), or fusion projects (44/876), they continue to introduce younger audiences to Jamaica’s rich musical heritage.

While mento and ska are not as dominant in Jamaica’s mainstream music scene today, several modern artists and bands are keeping these genres alive—either by preserving their traditional sound or fusing them with contemporary influences.

1. The Jolly Boys
   • One of the most well-known contemporary mento bands, The Jolly Boys have been active since the 1940s but gained renewed international fame in the 2010s.
   • They modernized mento by covering pop and rock songs with a mento twist, such as their version of Amy Winehouse’s “Rehab.”
   • Their 2010 album Great Expectation introduced mento to younger audiences worldwide.
2. Floyd Lloyd & The Potato 5
   • Floyd Lloyd, who passed away in 2018, was a key figure in preserving mento and early ska music.
   • He worked with international ska and reggae bands to keep Jamaica’s folk sounds alive.
3. Jamaica Folk Singers
   • This group keeps Jamaica’s traditional folk music, including mento, alive through performances and recordings.
   • They emphasize the cultural and historical roots of mento and other traditional sounds.
4. Brushy One String
   • While not strictly a mento artist, Brushy One String plays raw, acoustic Jamaican folk music with heavy mento influences.
   • His minimalist style, using just one string on his guitar, echoes the simplicity of early mento.

Modern Artists Keeping Ska Alive

1. The Skatalites (Reformed Band)
   • While many original members have passed, The Skatalites continue performing with new members.
   • They still tour globally, keeping ska’s original sound alive.
2. Derrick Harriott & The Crystalites
   • Though a veteran of rocksteady and reggae, Harriott and his band continue to produce music with strong ska influences.
3. Tokyo Ska Paradise Orchestra (Japan)
   • A non-Jamaican band, but they are one of the most successful modern ska bands in the world and often collaborate with Jamaican artists.
   • They blend traditional ska with jazz, rock, and even electronic music.
4. David Hillyard & The Rocksteady 7
   • An American band, but with deep Jamaican influences, they mix traditional ska, rocksteady, and jazz.
   • Hillyard has worked with Jamaican legends and keeps the sound authentic.
5. The Busters (Germany) & Los Fabulosos Cadillacs (Argentina)
   • These international bands show how Jamaican ska has influenced global music.
   • Both blend traditional ska with punk, reggae, and other contemporary sounds.
6. Lorna Bennet & Ska Nation Band
   • Lorna Bennet, best known for her reggae hit “Breakfast in Bed,” has been involved in projects reviving ska music.
   • Ska Nation Band, based in Europe but influenced by Jamaican sounds, collaborates with Jamaican artists.
7. The Ska Vengers (India)
   • Another international group heavily inspired by Jamaican ska.
   • They mix ska with funk, reggae, and jazz, proving ska’s global impact.

New Fusion Sounds: Mento & Ska in Modern Jamaican Music

While ska and mento are not as mainstream in Jamaica today, their rhythms and influences can still be found in modern genres like reggae, dancehall, and even Afrobeats.

• Protoje & Chronixx – While primarily reggae artists, they sometimes incorporate ska rhythms into their music.
• Shaggy & Sting (44/876 Album) – Their collaborative album paid tribute to early Jamaican sounds, including ska.
• Nomaddz – This Jamaican band blends dub poetry, ska, and reggae, keeping elements of older genres alive in modern ways.
• Ziggy Marley & The Melody Makers – Though reggae-based, they’ve experimented with ska and mento elements in their music.