Rhythm, Roots and Reverence: London Honours Three Reggae Greats

In the distinguished setting of the Jamaican High Commission, an evening of rhythm, reflection and cultural pride unfolded as members of the Caribbean diaspora gathered to celebrate three towering figures of Jamaican reggae – Stephen ‘Cat’ Coore, Jimmy Cliff and Lowell ‘Sly’ Dunbar.

Held during the international observance of Reggae Month in February, the tribute in London brought together His Excellency Alexander Wiilams (Jamaican High Commissioner to the United Kingdom), diplomats, musicians, journalists and cultural advocates for an evening rich with reflection and musical homage. The gathering recognised the profound contribution of these three Jamaican legends whose artistry has helped shape the global identity of reggae music.

Across decades, reggae has travelled far beyond its island birthplace. From Kingston’s recording studios to stages across Europe, Africa and the Americas, the genre has become one of Jamaica’s most powerful cultural ambassadors. While the international spotlight often rests upon figures such as Bob Marley, the wider story of reggae’s development is defined by a community of musicians whose talent, experimentation and cultural conviction gave the music its enduring power.

The tribute in London provided an opportunity to reflect upon three such figures whose individual journeys helped propel reggae onto the world stage.

Stephen “Cat” Coore: Musical Excellence and Cultural Sophistication

Few musicians have influenced reggae’s musical sophistication as profoundly as Stephen “Cat” Coore.

Born in Kingston into a distinguished Jamaican family, Coore’s musical upbringing included classical training on the cello before his path shifted towards reggae. That classical grounding would later inform his distinctive style, bringing technical precision and melodic elegance to a genre rooted in rhythm and storytelling.

As a founding member of the internationally acclaimed band Third World, Coore helped redefine the possibilities of reggae music during the 1970s and 1980s. The band’s sound blended reggae with elements of soul, funk and jazz, demonstrating that the genre could evolve musically while remaining grounded in Jamaican identity.

Throughout his career, Coore has maintained a philosophy that speaks to the universal nature of music.

“Music is a universal language. Reggae simply carries the Jamaican accent.”

That perspective resonated deeply throughout the High Commission gathering, where guests reflected upon the importance of preserving reggae’s authenticity while embracing its global influence.

A particularly moving highlight of the evening came through a musical tribute by Kria McKenzie. With grace and emotional depth, the reigning Miss Jamaica UK delivered a heartfelt performance of ‘now that we found love’ dedicated to Coore capturing the elegance and spirit that have long defined his musical legacy.

Her tribute served as a powerful reminder that reggae continues to inspire younger generations who proudly carry Jamaica’s cultural heritage forward.

Jimmy Cliff: The Voice That Carried Reggae Worldwide

If Coore refined reggae’s musical composition, Jimmy Cliff helped introduce its message to the wider world.

Born James Chambers in St James, Jamaica, Cliff’s journey from modest beginnings to international recognition represents one of reggae’s most remarkable success stories.

By the late 1960s, Cliff had already begun to gain recognition as a gifted songwriter. His career reached a pivotal moment with his starring role in the influential film The Harder They Come. The film, and its accompanying soundtrack, played a transformative role in introducing reggae music to global audiences.

Through songs that spoke of perseverance, struggle and faith, Cliff gave voice to experiences that resonated far beyond Jamaica.

One of his most enduring messages continues to inspire listeners across generations:

“You can get it if you really want, but you must try.”

The song’s message of determination has long served as a quiet anthem for individuals striving to overcome adversity.

During the tribute event, speakers highlighted Cliff’s ability to communicate universal themes through reggae. His music captured the aspirations of a nation while speaking to audiences navigating their own journeys of resilience and hope.

His influence extends across genres and generations, establishing him as one of reggae’s most recognisable global ambassadors.

Lowell “Sly” Dunbar: The Rhythm That Defined an Era

Where Cliff carried reggae’s message and Coore refined its musical form, Lowell “Sly” Dunbar created the rhythmic foundation that powered the genre’s evolution.

As the drummer in the legendary rhythm partnership Sly and Robbie, Dunbar helped revolutionise Jamaican music. His drumming style combined technical mastery with creative experimentation, transforming the role of percussion within reggae.

Over the course of his career, Dunbar performed on thousands of recordings, working with artists across reggae, rock, pop and hip-hop. His rhythmic signature became one of the most recognisable elements of Jamaican music.

Dunbar’s philosophy about rhythm reflects his understanding of music’s deeper purpose:

“The drum is the heartbeat of the music. If the heartbeat is strong, the whole body moves.”

That heartbeat has resonated across decades of recordings, influencing musicians around the world.

The tribute in London acknowledged Dunbar not only as a master drummer but also as a pioneer whose rhythmic innovations helped shape the sound of modern reggae and dancehall.

Reggae’s Living Legacy in the London Diaspora

Music remained at the heart of the evening’s celebration.

London-based reggae band True Identity delivered an energetic performance that captivated the audience and reinforced the enduring vitality of reggae within Britain’s Caribbean community.

Their performance blended familiar classics with vibrant instrumentation, reminding guests that reggae continues to evolve while remaining anchored in its cultural roots.

The atmosphere inside the High Commission shifted effortlessly between celebration and reflection as attendees shared memories of how reggae music had shaped their lives.

For many members of the diaspora, reggae represents more than entertainment. It serves as a cultural thread connecting generations and bridging geographical distance.

London occupies a unique place in reggae’s international story. Following the arrival of Caribbean communities in Britain during the mid-twentieth century, reggae became deeply embedded within the country’s cultural landscape. Sound system culture flourished in neighbourhoods such as Brixton, while events like the iconic Notting Hill Carnival introduced reggae rhythms to wider British audiences.

The tribute evening at the Jamaican High Commission reflected that long-standing relationship between Jamaica and its diaspora.

Guests spoke of growing up hearing reggae through family gatherings, community celebrations and local radio stations. For many, the music provided a powerful sense of identity and belonging.

The gathering also underscored the role of the diaspora in safeguarding Jamaica’s cultural legacy. Through cultural events, journalism, education and performance, communities abroad continue to champion reggae’s significance.

Each year, Reggae Month celebrates the cultural significance of the genre and honours the musicians who helped shape it. The observance extends far beyond Jamaica’s shores, with tributes and events taking place across the Caribbean, Europe and North America.

The London tribute demonstrated how reggae’s legacy continues to inspire cultural dialogue and artistic expression around the world. By recognising the contributions of figures such as Coore, Cliff and Dunbar, Reggae Month provides an opportunity to reflect upon the creativity and resilience that gave rise to Jamaica’s most influential musical tradition.

What Their Legacy Means for the Jamaican Music Fraternity

For Jamaica’s music fraternity, the passing of pioneering figures represents both reflection and responsibility.

The early architects of reggae worked during a period when the industry lacked the global recognition and infrastructure it enjoys today. Their achievements emerged through determination, innovation and a deep belief in the power of music to tell Jamaica’s story.

The modern music landscape now benefits from the pathways these pioneers established. Today’s musicians carry the responsibility of preserving reggae’s authenticity while exploring new creative possibilities.

The contributions of Coore, Cliff and Dunbar demonstrate that musical excellence can coexist with cultural purpose.

As the evening drew to a close, a sense of gratitude filled the room of the Jamaican High Commission.

Through music, storytelling and heartfelt tributes, guests honoured three individuals whose artistry helped shape one of the most influential musical movements of the twentieth century.

Stephen “Cat” Coore refined reggae’s musical expression. Jimmy Cliff carried its message to the world. Lowell “Sly” Dunbar created the rhythms that propelled the genre forward.

Their legacy continues to echo wherever reggae is played — from Kingston studios to London stages and beyond.

As Jimmy Cliff once reflected with quiet wisdom:

“Music can change people, and people can change the world.”

On this memorable evening in London, that sentiment felt profoundly true. Through remembrance and celebration, the rhythm of reggae lives on — a cultural heartbeat that continues to unite communities, inspire generations and affirm Jamaica’s extraordinary influence on global music. One Love!

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