Country Reggae
tagStarted 1970sPeak 2008–2015Last big hit still active
Country Reggae brings skanking or reggae-adjacent rhythm, laid-back offbeat pulse, and island atmosphere into country songcraft. The blend usually softens country's rhythmic attack and replaces it with sway.
History
Buffett's broader island style laid the groundwork, but Zac Brown Band and later radio hits made the reggae tinge more audible inside mainstream country. It remains a flavor rather than a sealed genre, but listeners know it immediately when the backbeat starts leaning seaside.
Defining artists
Essential listening
Sources
- Buffett and coastal-country influence coverage