Ska1 130

Behind the music:

Ska music originated in Jamaica in the late 1950s, blending elements of Caribbean mento and calypso with American jazz and rhythm and blues. Characterized by its upbeat tempo and distinctive offbeat guitar or piano rhythms, ska features a lively brass section, often including trumpets and trombones. The genre evolved through several waves, with the first wave in the 1960s leading to the second wave in the late 1970s and early 1980s, particularly in the UK, where bands like The Specials and Madness emerged. Ska’s influence is evident in various music styles, including reggae, punk, and rocksteady. Today, it continues to thrive through diverse bands worldwide, maintaining its vibrant and energetic spirit.