Music from the Caribbean

The culture and hospitable people are just some of the reasons we chose the beautiful Caribbean as our home. But the island music and sounds are one of the most famous things about our locations, and it’s iconic in creating that welcoming, warm and relaxed atmosphere as soon as you land. This is the exact feeling we adopt at Sandals Resorts. We encourage all our guests to get lost in the music and embrace the whole island experience. From taste to smell, sight-seeing to sounds, awaken your senses as we delve into the rich history and story behind the cool calypso rhythm that you just can’t help but dance to.

Before you embark on your journey to our islands, we’ve collated a brief overview of Caribbean music. It’s time to get on your feet and move to the tropical beat!

What Kind Of Music Comes From The Caribbean?

There are so many popular genres of Caribbean music that are listened to around the world. The often relaxing and comforting combinations of beats have been described us up-lifting and joyous. Caribbean music sticks to its roots and has a distinct sound, although new fusions and related styles are commonly introduced, here are some of the more famous categories of island music types…

• Folk music
• Ska
• Calypso
• Chutney
• Rocksteady
• Reggae
• Dub music
• Dancehall

These Caribbean music genres influenced the beginnings of salsa, mambo, rumba, and calypso dancing. They're all types of movement to vibrant music and this region is famous for its energetic dance styles. Would you love a lesson?

Which instruments are used in Caribbean music?

The irresistible soulful sound of steel drums dominates West Indian music. Also known as steelpan, they can be played solo or in a group. Other types of wooden drums and hand shakers are used together to create the soothing tones of island music.

Where Did Reggae Originate?

Sandals Resorts and reggae have one thing in common, they were both born in Jamaica. You might associate reggae with famous late Bob Marley, and he sure was the pioneer of the music genre in the 1960s, but like most types of music, it’s hard to track back to a single original creator. But Marley, and his famous band The Wailers, did bring reggae into the mainstream.

Where To Listen To Caribbean Music When Your Arrive?

At Sandals Resorts, we regularly hold our own Caribbean parties across our 6 islands as we think it’s important to celebrate our culture with our visitors. We want guests to have an authentic adventure and have the opportunity to learn a new dance or song to take home with them. For those seeking an authentic island experience, here are some ways to listen and interact with local sounds.

• Carnivals. This type of celebration is hugely popularly across all the islands, as it’s an amazing way to rejoice in rich history and culture.
• Live bands. Ask our front of house staff for recommendations for local bars and events to listen to live music.
• Radio stations.

Top Tip: Check the island’s carnival timetables for the year you are looking to travel. If you love music and cultural experience, this is an event you won’t want to miss!

Island Music Playlist For Your Caribbean Holiday

We’ve pulled together some of our favourite songs to kickstart the countdown to your next trip.

• Jamming — Bob Marley and The Wailers
• Night Nurse — Gregory Issacs
• Red Red Wine - UB40
• Stir It Up - Bob Marley and the Wailers Stir It Up
• Now That We Found Love - Third World
• I Feel Good - Beres Hammond
• Pressure Drop – Toots And The Maytals
• Could You Be Loved - Bob Marley
• I Can See Clearly Now - Johnny Nash
• Night Nurse - Gregory Isaacs