Bass Culture

By Lloyd Bradley,

Book cover of Bass Culture: When Reggae Was King

Book description

The first major account of the history of reggae, black music journalist Lloyd Bradley describes its origins and development in Jamaica, from ska to rock-steady to dub and then to reggae itself, a local music which conquered the world. There are many extraordinary stories about characters like Prince Buster, King…

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Why read it?

1 author picked Bass Culture as one of their favorite books. Why do they recommend it?

If you want to nod your head along with the greats of Jamaican music, this book is for you. 

I would not be writing about this music without this book. The way that Bradley writes this oral history captures so much feeling and vibe that you cannot stop reading it.  So many musicians, producers, and engineers are interviewed about the rise of Jamaican music that you must read this book. 

I believe that this book is the center of all writing on Jamaican popular music and it is a must read for anyone who loves the sound.  

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