Caribbean Popular Music: An Encyclopedia of Reggae, Mento, Ska, Rock Steady, and Dancehall
Caribbean Popular Musicprovides insight into the lives of Caribbean musicians and the styles they have created over the last 50 years, focusing primarily on the music and musicians of Jamaica. Although the island nation is best known for reggae music, its musicians have created and been influenced by many other styles. Some styles were homegrown, like ska and mento, and some imported from the U.S., such as jazz and rhythm and blues.Arranged alphabetically, entries are generally two to four short paragraphs in length, with the exception of a three-page entry for reggae artist Bob Marley, whose influence on music of the Caribbean and carryover popularity into the U.S. have made his name almost synonymous with reggae music. Most of the musical styles mentioned in this book have upbeat sounds, with humor an often-used tool. Even the artists' names are entertaining, such as Count Sticky, Fathead, and Eek-A-Mouse. In addition to musicians, this work sheds light on terms and styles unknown to many of us. For example,Toastingmeans talking very fast over the beat of the music either with words or nonsense syllables, akin to but distinct from rap. Entries for producers and record labels that influenced musical developments in Jamaica and the region are also included, as are more than 200 black-and-white photos of artists.The Garland Encyclopedia of World Music, v.2(1998), covers South America, Mexico, Central America, and the Caribbean, but its main focus is on the history, culture, and styles of the various regions and not on individual artists.Garlandis considered an essential reference set, with 10 volumes and CDs accompanying each, but reference books such asCaribbean Popular Musicserve as complementary works. Written in authoritative yet readable prose, Moskowitz's volume is appropriate for public and academic library collections.Steven YorkCopyright © American Library Association. All rights reserved