But, nowadays, with the terrific popularity of Spanish reggae, it seems Jamaica has had more influence on Spain than Spain ever had on Jamaica, doesn’t it?
Want to take a look at how and why reggae sprung up in Jamaica, eventually spreading worldwide?…
Well, you’ll learn all about that on this page.
You’ll also discover a video clip of Don Omar singing Pobre Diabla further down.
Spanish Reggae Music – Jamaica
Round about 1494, the Spanish discovered Jamaica and settled there.
It was already inhabited by indigenous peoples – but many died, unaccustomed to illnesses and diseases brought in by Spanish settlers.
So … the Spanish transported Africans to this beautiful island, to use as slaves.
It’s these slaves we have to thank for reggae roots – originally closely linked to the Rastafarianism religion.
By the way … the Spanish left Jamaica in 1655 – when the English took over.
Spanish Reggae Music – Panama
You have the Puerto Ricans to thank for really popularising spanish reggae.
They took the beats and rhythms from Panama, incorporating their own influences of hip hop, dancehall, rapping …
Since the mid-1990s, the term reggaeton has been used to describe the more developed spanish reggae style … and it’s popularity increases …
Spanish Reggae Music – Video
Want to listen to Don Omar’s Pobre Diabla …
Just click on the arrow in the center of the screen to play – it only lasts a few minutes.
However, should you wish to stop it before the end, you can always click on the two short lines which appear on the bottom, left-hand side …
Enjoy!