Reggae Explosion is an exceptional celebration of cultural upheaval and artistic destiny, as well as a book no sincere fan of the music would want to be without." -Billboard Magazine Reggae, a potent blend of Caribbean folk, American rock 'n' soul, Rastafarianism, and politics, is more than just a style of music: it's a cultural movement. With more than 400 illustrations, Reggae Explosion charts the course of the rhythmic revolution that began on Jamaica and took over the world. Reggae authorities Chris Salewicz and Adrian Boot tell the stories behind the distinct sound and capture the contrasts that typify its birthplace: the poverty, societal strife, deep spiritualism, and energy of Jamaica. Culled from the world's most comprehensive collection of reggae memorabilia, hundreds of images document the past 50 years of ska and dub, dancehall, even drum 'n' bass.