The moment you hear the distinct beat and the rhythm guitars chops, you know it is reggae music. Originated from various Jamaican music like ska, rocksteady, RnB, Jazz, Calypso, and Mento (WTH is Mento)
Reggae music became popular in Jamaica back when it was about to proclaim its independence and the people were longing for a beat, a fresh sound that could express their true emotions and reggae music rose up to the challenge and was successful. Even after the things have been worse and crappy, reggae music was still played.
Reggae has been successful in expressing the feelings of people but it advanced into a more expressive vessel. Entertainment is not only the main reason of reggae, it produced a different purpose. It evolved into something rebellious and defiant. Musicians started using it as a means of exposing the different negative aspects of life, the injustice, the violence and corruption of their government. It tells the people of Jamaica to get up and stand up for their rights.
Reggae Music was also used to be an instrument of faith, the Rastafarian faith. Reggae music was often linked to the Rasta religion and songs of Rasta faith were common in reggae songs.
For me, Reggae music is something that I chill to. Chill, cool, and relaxing music.