Throughout October in the UK, numerous events are happening nationwide to celebrate Black History Month, check the links at the bottom of this article to find out more.

Black History Month originated in the United States in 1926, but it wasn’t until 1987 that it took root in the UK, thanks to Ghanaian activist Akyaaba Addai-Sebo who spearheaded the movement. He wanted to address racism in Britain and educate people about the history of the African diaspora, establishing October as the month to honour the rich legacy of Black communities in the UK. 

Reggae Music has played an important role in celebrating, honouring and educating listeners about Black History. Reggae tells the stories of Black history and culture, through lyrics, rhythm and dance. Jamaicans have a particularly unique skill in manipulating the English language through metaphor, rhyme and parable, using words and melody to paint mental pictures that strike lasting emotional chords.  Epic tales of great warriors and wise sages fighting battles against mighty foes, overcoming injustice to free their people and find peace in the fabled utopia. And it’s not just the lyrics that tell the story, the rhythms of the Rastafari Nyahbinghi drumming played a big part in the development of Reggae and are still used in songs today. Roots Reggae in particular is a sub-genre of Reggae very deeply focussed on spreading teachings of Black history and Rastafarianism. 

Reggae has long been a voice for the voiceless. The music educates its listeners, bringing awareness to the historical and ongoing struggles of Black people globally. The influence of Rastafari cannot be understated in this, as a religion it is deeply rooted in sharing the teachings of historical figures and events in Black history. 

There are plenty of examples to choose from but here are a few of the most prominent ones.

Burning Spear - Marcus Garvey

Burning Spear is practically a historian in the Reggae world, and his track "Marcus Garvey" is a tribute to one of the most influential Black leaders in history. Garvey was a Jamaican political activist who inspired millions with his Pan-Africanism movement. This song not only honors him but also serves as a reminder of Garvey’s work in empowering Black people to know their worth and heritage.

Bob Marley - War

Taken from a speech by Ethiopian Emperor Haile Selassie, "War" is an anthem against racism and inequality. Bob Marley’s delivery transformed Selassie’s words into a battle cry for civil rights and social justice, shedding light on the ongoing fight for equality faced by Black people around the world.

Hugh Mundell - Africa Must Be Free by 1983

Hugh Mundell, though tragically taken from us too soon, left behind an undeniable classic with "Africa Must Be Free by 1983." This song speaks to the Pan-African movement, the dream of a liberated Africa, and the end of colonial rule. It’s a powerful ode to the freedom fighters of the African continent.

Each of these songs serves as a history lesson wrapped in rhythm. They aren’t just tunes to vibe to—they’re narratives, they’re protests, and they’re affirmations of Black identity. 

Reggae music is more than just a genre. It’s a movement, a rhythm of revolution, and a vital tool for storytelling—particularly the stories of Black history and culture. At its core, Reggae music serves as a vessel for Black history, carrying messages of resistance, hope, and unity across generations. 

In 2018, Reggae Music received an honorary award from the United Nations cultural and scientific agency UNESCO by being added to a list of global cultural treasures that should be protected and promoted. 

UNESCO said that Reggae music’s “contribution to international discourse on issues of injustice, resistance, love and humanity underscores the dynamics of the element as being at once cerebral, socio-political, sensual and spiritual.”

Reggae music, in its raw authenticity, speaks to the past, present, and future of Black people worldwide. In a world where history is often written by the victors, Reggae ensures that the stories of the oppressed, the enslaved, and the resilient are never forgotten. 

Check out our selection of Black History Month Reggae in this month’s Reggae Scorchers Spotify Playlist.

https://open.spotify.com/playlist/14gLU3joiXaoM2h7fzmO4Q?si=711745d821824aa1 

RECOMMENDED LINKS:

Find out about all the Black History Month events in your area on the Black History Month UK Official website: https://www.blackhistorymonth.org.uk/ 

For educators, check out the Black History Month Resource Pack: https://www.blackhistorymonth.org.uk/black-history-month-resource-pack-2024/ 

Sick of endlessly scrolling to find something to watch? Check out the BFI list of 10 Great Reggae Films: https://www.bfi.org.uk/lists/10-great-reggae-films 

Black History Month UK List of 30 British Black Music Albums (Various Genres): https://www.blackhistorymonth.org.uk/article/section/30th-anniversary/30-british-black-music-albums-mark-african-history-month-30/