Black Music Sunday: Join a joyous musical celebration of Jamaican independence

People around the world are major fans of the music and musicians who call the Caribbean nation of Jamaica home. Jamaica might have a population of just 2.83 million (with another 2 million in the diaspora), but its musical impact has reached millions upon millions more people worldwide.

Here in the United States, we can proudly lay claim to the great Jamaican American Harry Belafonte, who joined the ancestors this April.

But there’s a long list of other Jamaican American musicians who may surprise you. Join me in celebrating Jamaica’s independence with a look at her music and musicians.

RELATED STORY: Black Music Sunday: Celebrating Harry Belafonte on International Jazz Day

Black Music Sunday is a weekly series highlighting all things Black music. With 170 stories (and counting) covering performers, genres, history, and more, each featuring its own vibrant soundtrack, I hope you’ll find some familiar tunes and perhaps an introduction to something new.