Bass Culture: When Reggae Was King

by Lloyd Bradley
Bass Culture: When Reggae Was King cover
Good Books rating 4.42
History, Identity, Culture, Sociology
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  • ID: 9589
  • Added: 2026-01-01
  • Updated: 2026-01-01
  • ISBN: 9780140237634
  • Publisher: Penguin UK
  • Published: 2001-08-30
  • Reviews: 3

Bass Culture by Lloyd Bradley is a comprehensive exploration of reggae music's origins and its evolution in Jamaica. The book traces the journey from ska to rock-steady, dub, and finally to reggae, highlighting how this local music transcended borders to conquer the world. Bradley's work is not just a chronicle of musical genres but also a testament to the cultural and social influences that shaped reggae. /n/n The narrative delves into the lives of the artists, the socio-political climate of Jamaica, and the global reception of reggae music. Bradley's detailed account provides a rich tapestry of the music's development, making it a must-read for music enthusiasts and cultural historians alike.

Reviews
Bass Culture Substack · Dubmatix · 2023-05-01
powerful 4.75

The book is praised for its vivid portrayal of Jamaica's heartbeat and reggae's role as a voice for struggle and hope. The reviewer finds it to be a powerful and engaging read.

Dubmatix offers a heartfelt review of Lloyd Bradley's book, emphasizing its vivid portrayal of Jamaica's cultural landscape. The reviewer appreciates how Bradley captures the essence of reggae as more than just music, but as a voice for the people. The book's ability to convey the struggles and hopes of Jamaica through its music is particularly noteworthy. It's a powerful read that resonates deeply with those who understand the cultural significance of reggae.

Quick quotes

    Bradley takes readers through the heartbeat of Jamaica, showing how reggae wasn't just music but a voice for struggle, pride, hope, and ...

    The book is praised for its vivid portrayal of Jamaica's heartbeat and reggae's role as a voice for struggle and hope.

    The reviewer finds it to be a powerful and engaging read.

Black Country Rock · 2019-06-28
entertaining 4.00

The book is both entertaining and informative, offering a comprehensive look at the history of reggae. It is praised for its engaging narrative and depth of research.

This book is a delightful blend of entertainment and education. The reviewer found it to be a compelling read that sheds light on the rich history of reggae music. The author's extensive research and firsthand interviews add a layer of authenticity that makes the book stand out. It's not just a history lesson; it's a journey through the cultural and social impact of reggae, making it a must-read for music enthusiasts and history buffs alike.

Quick quotes

    It's entertaining and informing.

    I'd tried to read Marlon James A Brief History of Seven Killings which ran in parallel for much of Bass Culture.

    The book is a comprehensive look at the history of reggae.

All About Jazz · Matthew Wuethrich · 2003-10-16
significant 4.50

The book is a significant account of reggae's history, highlighting its unique development and cultural impact. The reviewer appreciates the detailed recounting of reggae's evolution.

Matthew Wuethrich provides a detailed and insightful review of Lloyd Bradley's work. He highlights how the book meticulously traces the development of reggae, showcasing its unique characteristics and cultural significance. The reviewer particularly enjoys the way Bradley recounts specific events and concerts, illustrating how reggae has grown and evolved over the years. This book is not just a historical account but a celebration of reggae's enduring influence on music and culture.

Quick quotes

    British journalist Lloyd Bradley recounts the concert to show how reggae has developed 'muscles that unique among popular music anywhere in the world.'

    The book is a significant account of reggae's history.

    The reviewer appreciates the detailed recounting of reggae's evolution.

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