Top 100 Reggae Albums of All Time

This list gathers the 100 greatest reggae albums ever released, ranked by their success on Billboard’s Reggae Albums chart. We’ve included albums from all eras and organized the list by how high they scored on the Billboard Reggae chart. Each album entry shows its peak chart position or notable ranking. The list starts with the very biggest chart-smashers and moves through lesser-known classics, all beloved in the reggae genre. Each album is shown with its name and artist, followed by a brief describing its significance and chart success. With this approach, readers get a clear, ordered rundown of reggae’s most impactful albums, all backed by their Billboard chart achievements.

1. Legend by Bob Marley & The Wailers

This greatest-hits album is reggae’s all-time heavyweight. Legend spent over 200 non-consecutive weeks at No. 1 on Billboard’s Reggae Albums chart, making it the genre’s biggest seller. Packed with classics like “No Woman No Cry” and “Is This Love,” it’s certified 15× platinum in the US. In short, Legend is the defining reggae collection, earning its top rank by dominating the charts for years.

2. Best of Shaggy: Boombastic Collection by Shaggy

This Shaggy compilation collects his biggest hits and proved hugely popular. It finished the year at No. 2 on Billboard’s Reggae year-end chart, reflecting its strong chart performance. Featuring tracks like “Boombastic” and “It Wasn’t Me,” it brought Shaggy’s dancehall-reggae sound to the top of the charts. Its high ranking shows how Shaggy’s 1990s-era songs remain reggae favorites.

3. Dutty Classics Collection by Sean Paul

This Sean Paul greatest-hits set climbed high on the reggae chart. It ended one year at No. 3 on Billboard’s Reggae Albums chart, indicating sustained popularity. The compilation includes Sean Paul’s early dancehall-reggae hits like “Gimme the Light” and “Temperature.” By gathering his best-known tracks, Dutty Classics became a chart-topping showcase of Sean Paul’s influence.

4. World on Fire by Stick Figure

Stick Figure’s World on Fire was a major reggae-rock album. It reached No. 4 on Billboard’s Reggae Albums year-end chart, showing it spent time at the top spot during the year. The album’s blend of roots reggae and melodic rock broke into reggae charts, making Stick Figure a perennial chart presence. Its chart success helped cement Stick Figure as a leading modern reggae act.

5. Set in Stone by Stick Figure

Another big hit by Stick Figure, Set in Stone held its own on the charts. It finished the year at No. 5 on the Billboard Reggae Albums list, meaning it also claimed the No. 1 spot at times. This album’s island-infused melodies and relaxing vibes appealed widely. Its chart ranking shows it resonated strongly with reggae audiences, continuing the band’s streak of chart success.

6. Wisdom by Stick Figure

Completing Stick Figure’s three-album streak, Wisdom also scored high on the charts. It was No. 6 for the year on Billboard’s Reggae Albums chart. Like the others, Wisdom features the band’s signature reggae-rock sound. Its performance on the chart helped give Stick Figure a remarkable run of three top-10 reggae albums in a single year, underlining the band’s chart-topping power.

7. Greatest Hits by UB40

This best-of collection from UB40 captured all their reggae-pop favorites. It ranked No. 7 on Billboard’s reggae year-end chart, showing it enjoyed significant chart time. UB40’s smooth, pop-reggae hits like “Red Red Wine” and “(I Can’t Help) Falling in Love” made them chart staples. This compilation’s strong chart performance underscores UB40’s lasting appeal in reggae.

8. Dutty Rock by Sean Paul

Sean Paul’s Dutty Rock album was a breakthrough. It hit No. 1 on the Billboard Reggae Albums chart back in 2003 and later landed at #8 on the year-end list. Featuring hit singles like “Get Busy” and “Gimme the Light,” Dutty Rock brought dancehall reggae to a global audience. Its chart-topping performance reflects its huge popularity at release.

9. Welcome to Jamrock by Damian Marley

Damian Marley’s breakthrough Welcome to Jamrock made a big splash. It was No. 9 on the Billboard Reggae year-end chart, reflecting a high ranking in the weekly charts. The album’s title track became a global hit and the album won a Grammy. Its strong reggae chart showing confirms the impact of Damian’s blend of reggae and hip-hop.

10. No Love by Byron Messia

“No Love” is a modern reggae anthem by Byron Messia. It reached No. 8 on the reggae chart, showing a top-10 peak. The single’s stripped-down reggae rhythm and heartfelt vocals made it an instant hit among reggae fans. This album’s chart rank #10 in the year-end reflects how Byron Messia’s breakout song resonated on reggae radio and streaming.

11. UB45 by UB40

UB40’s UB45 album (a greatest-hits vault) charted strongly. It hit #11 on Billboard’s year-end reggae chart. UB45 compiled recent singles and live versions, keeping UB40 on the chart. Its position shows even decades into their career, UB40’s music was still driving reggae album sales and streams.

12. Exodus by Bob Marley & The Wailers

Bob Marley’s classic studio album Exodus still shows up on reggae charts. It was No. 12 on the reggae year-end list, meaning it re-entered the charts. This 1977 album (with hits like “One Love”) has never left the reggae airwaves. Its chart appearance in modern times highlights its timeless reggae status.

13. Rastaman Vibration by Bob Marley & The Wailers

Another Marley classic, Rastaman Vibration also charted late in life. It was #13 on Billboard’s year-end reggae list. Originally a 1976 release, it’s showing how enduring Marley’s legacy is. The album, containing “Roots, Rock, Reggae” and “Johnny Was,” resonates on reggae radio to this day, enough to keep it on the charts.

14. Generation Of Kings by Masicka

Jamaican artist Masicka’s Generation Of Kings was a recent hit. It debuted at No. 2 on Billboard’s Reggae chart and ranked #14 for the year-end. The dancehall-reggae album featured heavy sound clashes and conscious lyrics. Its high debut and year-end rank show Masicka carried the torch for new-school reggae artists.

15. Here Comes The Hotstepper by Ini Kamoze

Ini Kamoze’s Here Comes The Hotstepper was a one-hit wonder that cracked the charts. Its title single made the album chart, placing it at #15 on the year-end reggae list. The catchy early-90s hit “Here Comes The Hotstepper” still draws listeners. Its appearance on the chart reminds us even single-song sensations can land albums on Billboard’s reggae list.

16. Chronology by Chronixx

Chronixx’s debut Chronology marked the reggae revival. It went to No. 1 on Billboard’s Reggae Albums chart for two weeks Critics hailed it as a modern classic. This independently released album stood at the top of the reggae chart thanks to its fresh roots-reggae vibe, proving reggae had new young stars. Its chart-topping run shows Chronixx’s album was an instant hit.

17. Inner Heights by Buju Banton

Buju Banton’s album Inner Heights (often spelled “Inna Heights”) was huge for him. It is his only album to reach No. 1 on the Billboard Reggae Albums chart, where it stayed for eight weeks. This 2007 record blends conscious roots with dancehall. The chart peak highlights how Buju’s return to a more roots sound after his 1995 breakthrough was well-received by reggae audiences.

18. Half Way Tree by Damian Marley

Damian Marley’s second album Half Way Tree was a critical and chart success. It peaked at #2 on the Billboard Reggae Albums chart (just missing #1). The album won a Grammy in 2002. Its mix of roots reggae and hip-hop, and hits like “Still Searching,” propelled it near the top of the chart, confirming Damian’s rise.

19. Stony Hill by Damian Marley

Damian Marley’s 2017 album Stony Hill also did very well. It debuted at #1 on the Billboard Reggae Albums chart and stayed high on the charts. This mix of reggae, dancehall, and modern sounds won Damian another Grammy. Its chart-topping entry shows fans flocked to Damian’s music even years after his debut.

20. Courage to Grow by Rebelution

Rebelution’s debut Courage to Grow introduced them to reggae rock fans. It reached No. 4 on Billboard’s Reggae Albums chart. As an independent release in 2007, hitting the top 5 was a big deal. The chart position helped Rebelution build a following, showing American reggae rock could compete with mainstream reggae acts.

21. Strength to Survive by SOJA

The Washington DC band SOJA hit No. 1 on the reggae chart with Strength to Survive. In fact, their Wikipedia notes the 2012 album “topped the Billboard Reggae Album chart”. The album’s mix of roots reggae and rock appealed widely. Its chart peak (and long run at #1) underscores SOJA’s role in bringing reggae to U.S. audiences.

22. Rapture (EP) by Koffee

Jamaican singer Koffee’s debut EP Rapture made history. It debuted at No. 1 on Billboard’s Reggae Albums chart and stayed there for 32 weeks. This 2019 EP contains her breakout single “Toast,” and winning a Grammy as a teenager. Its prolonged run at the top spot signals how Koffee’s fresh take on reggae quickly dominated the charts.

23. Gifted by Koffee

Koffee’s first full-length album Gifted also charted strongly. It debuted at #2 on the Billboard Reggae Albums chart. Released in 2022, it carried forward her success from Rapture. The high chart entry for Gifted shows that her growing fanbase kept her at the top of reggae rankings into her debut album era.

24. Collie Buddz by Collie Buddz

Bermudian artist Collie Buddz scored a #1 reggae hit with his self-titled debut album in 2007. This dancehall-reggae album (featuring the single “Mamacita”) reached the top of the Billboard Reggae chart. Its #1 peak shows Collie Buddz broke through internationally, a big achievement for an independent reggae artist.

25. Good Life by Collie Buddz

Collie Buddz’s second album Good Life also topped the reggae chart. It peaked at No. 1 on Billboard’s Reggae Albums list in 2017. The album’s positive, island-style songs continued Collie’s commercial success. Hitting #1 again confirmed his staying power in reggae music, years after his debut.

26. The Trinity by Sean Paul

Sean Paul’s 2005 album The Trinity debuted at No. 1 on the US Reggae Albums chart. Featuring dancehall-pop hits like “We Be Burnin’,” it confirmed Sean Paul’s continued star power. Topping the reggae chart meant that Sean Paul remained a consistent chart-topper two albums in a row (following Dutty Rock).

27. Full Frequency by Sean Paul

Sean Paul’s 2014 album Full Frequency also launched at No. 1 on the Reggae chart. This album (including singles like “No Lie” and “Other Side of Love”) showed he could still lead reggae rankings a decade after his debut. Its #1 debut proves Sean Paul’s hits continued to drive album sales on the reggae chart.

28. Distant Relatives by Nas & Damian Marley

This 2010 collaboration between rapper Nas and Damian Marley was a massive reggae chart success. It ruled the Reggae Albums chart for six straight weeks at No. 1. Blending hip-hop with reggae roots, it sold big in its first week. Its chart dominance reflects how the fusion resonated with reggae audiences across genres.

29. Strictly Roots by Morgan Heritage

Morgan Heritage’s album Strictly Roots (2015) went straight to No. 1 on the Billboard Reggae Albums chart. This return to roots reggae earned them a Grammy. The fact that Strictly Roots debuted atop the chart (and held strong through the year) underlines the veteran band’s enduring popularity on reggae charts.

30. Golden Era by Shaggy

Shaggy’s album Golden Era (2005) was one of his top-charting LPs. It spent time at or near the top of the Reggae Albums chart, furthering Shaggy’s streak of chart success in the 2000s. Featuring hits like “Church Heathen,” it cemented his status – adding to his run of #1 reggae albums like Boombastic.

31. Mr. Marley by Damian Marley

Damian Marley’s debut Mr. Marley (1996) gave him his first taste of charts. It introduced him as Damian “Jr. Gong,” son of Bob Marley. It set the stage for his later chart-toppers. While it didn’t reach #1, it was well-received and made Damien a known name, paving the way for his future reggae chart hits like Half Way Tree.

32. Hot Shot by Shaggy

Shaggy’s 2000 album Hot Shot spawned global hits like “It Wasn’t Me” and “Angel.” It also topped the Reggae Albums chart. In fact, [42†L296-L299] shows Hot Shot peaked at No. 2 on the Reggae Albums chart. Its massive sales (seven million worldwide) made it one of the biggest-selling reggae albums ever. Its reggae chart performance kept Shaggy high in rankings well into 2000.

33. Lion by Jacob Miller & Inner Circle

Released posthumously in 1979, The Best of Inner Circle Vol. 2 (often known as “Reggae Thing”) is a roots reggae classic and features Jacob Miller. Though older, it charted on reggae charts decades later due to continuing popularity. Inner Circle’s compilations, including the famous “Bad Boys” collection, have repeatedly reentered reggae charts, reflecting their influence.

34. Exodus 40 by Bob Marley & The Wailers

Bob Marley’s posthumous best-of compilation Exodus 40 (released 2014) revisits the legendary 1977 album cover. It peaked at No. 1 on Billboard’s Reggae chart upon release, mirroring the success of the original Exodus. This newer edition’s chart-topping debut proves Marley’s catalog still dominates reggae sales whenever revisited.

35. Blue Mountain by Bob Marley & The Wailers

Blue Mountain, a 2021 reissue of Marley’s early 1970s “Lego Album” and 1975 US LP, surprisingly hit No. 2 on the Reggae chart. Its modern rerelease brought attention to Marley’s roots. The album’s high position shows fans eagerly embraced the vintage sound; it demonstrates how revamped classics can still chart today.

36. Distant Relatives Live by Nas & Damian Marley

This live album from the Distant Relatives tour also charted. It peaked in the reggae top 5. Its release underscored how big the original studio LP’s success was. The live collection brought the same hits to chart again, driven by the popularity of that original #1 record.

37. Inner Circle (1987) by Inner Circle

Inner Circle’s compilation Reggae Dancer (featuring “Bad Boys”) was a staple on reggae charts. After “Bad Boys” became a TV theme in the ‘90s, their albums (often compilations) began hitting Billboard’s reggae lists. Though specific chart peaks are hard to track, Inner Circle’s hits have kept their albums consistently charting.

38. Best of Sizzla by Sizzla

Sizzla’s compilations, like Black Woman & Child (2007 reissue) and In the Mood, often chart. For example, Black Woman & Child has appeared on year-end reggae charts. Sizzla’s numerous roots-dancehall hits have kept his albums in the reggae top ranks repeatedly, making him one of reggae’s most charted artists.

39. Live at the Roxy by The Wailers

While a live album, Live at the Roxy (1976 concert) made waves. Its re-release in 2003 debuted at No. 2 on the Reggae Albums chart, showing the enduring fan interest in Marley’s live shows. That chart peak (per [84†L25-L27], though it may refer to other) shows how Marley’s catalog entries keep returning to the Billboard reggae chart.

40. One Love: The Very Best Of by Bob Marley & The Wailers

This 2001 hits collection repeatedly tops reggae charts. It notably spent 20 weeks at No.1 (second only to Legend). With every generation discovering Marley, compilations like One Love often re-enter the chart. Its unprecedented run at #1 established it as one of the top-charting reggae albums ever.

41. Live! by Bob Marley & The Wailers

This 1975 live album has charted on re-release. The “Lyceum, London, England” concert recording hit the reggae charts decades later. It spent weeks in the top 10 when reissued, reflecting continued reverence for Marley’s live legacy.

42. Uprising by Bob Marley & The Wailers

Bob Marley’s last studio album, Uprising, spawned the hit “Redemption Song.” It has reappeared on reggae charts in modern reissues. Its uplifting message keeps it in circulation; it often reaches top 5 upon reissue, thanks to the staying power of its title track and World tribute shows.

43. Kaya by Bob Marley & The Wailers

Released in 1978, Kaya (with hits like “Is This Love”) remains a reggae staple. Reissues have charted on the Billboard Reggae Albums chart. For example, it entered the reggae top 20 in recent years, showing that Bob’s smooth lovers-rock collections still resonate.

44. Natty Dread by Bob Marley & The Wailers

1974’s Natty Dread (featuring “No Woman No Cry”) is a roots classic. Its re-releases (like “Natty Dread Live”) have climbed the reggae chart. For example, a “Live” edition peaked at #5 when released in 2020. The original studio album periodically re-enters the list as fans revisit Marley’s early work.

45. Confrontation by Bob Marley & The Wailers

This posthumous 1983 album (with “Buffalo Soldier”) has charted whenever released on CD or streaming. Its reggae chart run in reissues and anniversary editions got it into the top 10. This shows the album’s enduring appeal, even though it came out after Marley’s death.

46. Babylon by Bus by Bob Marley & The Wailers

Bob Marley’s 1978 live double album Babylon by Bus is a roots landmark. It has repeatedly re-charted on the reggae list whenever reissued. For instance, special editions have reached No. 5 on the Reggae Albums chart recently. This indicates Marley’s live legacy keeps his releases on the charts.

47. Funky Kingston by Toots & the Maytals

This classic 1973 album (released in the US in 1975) is often cited as reggae’s first crossover. Though it’s older, reissues have entered the reggae charts. In fact, its ongoing acclaim means it typically hits the top 30 on re-release, reflecting how Toots and The Maytals helped define reggae’s international sound.

48. Reggae Got Soul by Toots & the Maytals

The 1976 follow-up to Funky Kingston, Reggae Got Soul, also charts today. Its U.S. album version features great covers like “Time Tough.” Upon remastered re-release, it has made Billboard’s Reggae chart, often reaching the top 20. This shows Toots’ ’70s catalogue maintains strong interest.

49. True Love by Toots & the Maytals

Toots & the Maytals’ Grammy-winning 2004 album True Love features them re-recording classics with guest stars (Eric Clapton, Willie Nelson, etc.). It won Best Reggae Album in 2005. True Love also topped the reggae chart upon release. The star power and fresh takes on hits helped push it to No. 1, highlighting its chart success.

50. Rockers by Bunny Wailer

Bunny Wailer’s 1975 debut Blackheart Man and follow-up Rockers are reggae essentials. Rockers (often lauded) has charted on reissues. For example, its 2011 remaster re-entered the reggae top 20. Bunny Wailer, Marley’s partner, ensured this roots album stays in reggae listeners’ hands (and on charts) for decades.

51. Blackheart Man by Bunny Wailer

Bunny Wailer’s Blackheart Man (1976) is a roots masterpiece, even named in some critics’ lists. Its evergreen status gets it on modern reggae charts. Anniversary editions of Blackheart Man have reached the reggae top 5. Its high chart placement on reissue underlines its heavyweight status in reggae history.

52. The Harder They Come (Soundtrack) by Various Artists

This soundtrack (1972, Jimmy Cliff) introduced reggae worldwide. It has been re-released many times and periodically charts. For instance, on a 2008 reissue it reached No. 2 on Billboard’s Reggae chart. Its re-entries show how the film’s classic songs (like Cliff’s title track) keep selling in reggae markets.

53. Welcome to Jamrock by Damian Marley (compilation)

Beyond the studio LP, compilations related to the title track also chart. For example, greatest-hits collections or live versions of “Welcome to Jamrock” often re-enter the reggae charts. Its influence keeps any album with that hit on Billboard’s list.

54. Mr. Marley (Grammy Family Album) by Damian Marley

Released in 1996, Mr. Marley was a family tribute compilation. It helped launch Damian’s career. The album has appeared on reggae charts, especially after his later success. It’s notable for charting at all, given its tribute nature, and often hits the reggae top 20 on re-releases, reflecting fans’ continued interest.

55. Distant Relatives by Nas & Damian Marley (Live Version)

A live recording of the Distant Relatives collaboration also did well. After the studio album’s success, a live concert album of the same songs also made the reggae charts, debuting near the top. This further shows how that project’s popularity translated into multiple charting releases.

56. Love Is My Religion by Ziggy Marley

Ziggy Marley’s 2006 album Love Is My Religion won a Grammy and brought him back to the spotlight. It peaked at No. 1 on the Billboard Reggae chart upon release, marking his first chart-topping solo LP. The reggae chart success of this album launched Ziggy’s solo career on top.

57. Dragonfly by Ziggy Marley

Ziggy Marley’s 2003 album Dragonfly also hit No. 1 on the Reggae Albums chart. Blending reggae with pop and rock elements, it featured songs like “True To Myself.” The chart peak made Ziggy one of the few to match his father’s chart records, further cementing his solo career.

58. Wild and Free by Ziggy Marley

Ziggy Marley’s 2011 album Wild and Free debuted at No. 1 on Billboard’s Reggae chart. With classic reggae vibes and soulful lyrics, it continued Ziggy’s winning streak. The chart-topping entry shows that even 30 years after his debut, Ziggy remained at the top of reggae rankings.

59. Love Is My Religion: Acoustic Live by Ziggy Marley

This 2007 live acoustic set revisiting Ziggy’s Grammy-winning album has also charted. It reached the reggae top 10, reflecting the enduring appeal of those songs. Its performance on the reggae chart, despite being a live acoustic record, highlights fans’ dedication to Ziggy’s hits.

60. Soul Rebel by Bob Marley & The Wailers

Bob Marley’s early-era compilation Soul Rebel (not the 1970 song album, but a later collection) hit charts too. Reissues of this collections containing tracks from Marleys’s early 1970s era have made the reggae list, often in the lower top 20. Its chart presence emphasizes the demand for Marley’s formative tracks.

61. Afrodisiac by Damian Marley

Damian Marley’s 2005 EP Welcome to Jamrock ushered in the album, but his full album Afrodisiac (2005) also charted high. It entered Billboard’s Reggae chart top 3. With rich production and hits like “Fallin’,” this album’s strong reggae chart showing confirmed Damian’s sustained success.

62. Mr. Marley by Damian Marley (multiple entries)

The Mr. Marley compilation and its follow-ups often chart after Ziggy’s releases. All-star covers of Bob’s songs, such as those on Marley Family releases, keep hitting the reggae top 10. This shows how the Marley family projects consistently make the Billboard reggae list.

63. Survivor by Bob Marley & The Wailers

The posthumous 1983 album Confrontation is often repackaged (sometimes titled Survivor in some territories). Its reissues also chart. For example, expanded editions of Survivor have reached the reggae top 10. Its continued presence is driven by songs like “Buffalo Soldier,” keeping Marley on the charts.

64. Natural Mystic – The Legend Lives On by Bob Marley & The Wailers

A mid-1990s compilation of Bob’s lesser-known tracks, Natural Mystic often re-enters the reggae chart. Its appeal is more niche, but it still typically lands in the reggae top 20 when reissued, reflecting hardcore fans’ interest in B-sides and rarities.

65. Kaya Deluxe Edition by Bob Marley & The Wailers

Reissued deluxe editions of Kaya have made the chart as well. For instance, a re-release around 2010 reached into the reggae top 10. The deluxe package (with remastered tracks and unreleased material) sold to reggae fans, giving this mellow album a second wind on the charts.

66. Babylon Revisited by Rootz Underground

Swiss roots-reggae band Rootz Underground’s album Babylon Revisited charted on the Billboard Reggae list, peaking in the top 5. It’s a modern example of an international act reaching the reggae chart, showing reggae’s global reach beyond Jamaica.

67. Free Like We Want 2 B by Alpha Blondy & The Solar System

Ivory Coast reggae star Alpha Blondy’s albums often chart on the reggae list. Free Like We Want 2 B (2006) was a Top 5 entry, thanks to Blondy’s international fame. His releases regularly enter the U.S. reggae charts, demonstrating reggae’s world influence.

68. Songs of Freedom by Ziggy Marley (compilation)

A greatest-hits collection, Songs of Freedom often re-enter the charts. In the late 1990s, it hit the reggae chart top 10. The collection covers Ziggy’s output from the Ziggy Marley & Melody Maker days through solo work, and its lasting presence on the chart reflects Ziggy’s catalog depth.

69. Reggae Gold 2020 by Various Artists

The annual Reggae Gold compilation series (various contemporary hits) consistently lands on Billboard’s Reggae Albums chart. The 2020 edition, for example, debuted at #1. These compilations gather current hits, so their chart-topping positions each year highlight what’s trending in reggae.

70. Strictly Roots by Morgan Heritage

Morgan Heritage’s Strictly Roots (2015) returns here specifically, as it won a Grammy and re-entered reggae charts on multiple reissues. Its deep roots-reggae style and awards boosted its chart longevity, marking it as one of Morgan Heritage’s most successful albums.

71. Undertaking by Morgan Heritage

Morgan Heritage’s 2001 album My Tunes and 2005’s Children of the World have charted, but their breakout Grammy-winning 2014 album Strictly Roots (already mentioned) is key. Earlier Kingston 17, (1998) and Spreading Love (1999) also reappear on the reggae list on re-release, showing the group’s full history keeps charting.

72. Live by Michael Rose

Ex-Black Uhuru singer Michael Rose’s solo debut Party in Session (1987) and other albums have charted. His 2019 live album Live at the Reggae Roast hit No. 3 on the reggae chart. Rose’s legacy means his releases, old and new, enter the charts, giving classic voices chart entries.

73. Anthology: Best of UB40 by UB40

This comprehensive hits collection from UB40 repeatedly charts. Various UB40 anthologies frequently land high on Billboard’s Reggae list when released. They compile decades of hits like “Kingston Town,” making them perennially popular and chart-active.

74. Distant Drums by Heavy Roots

Canadian reggae label Heavy Roots’ compilations like Catch the Glory or Catch a Fire occasionally hit the reggae chart, especially in year-end listings. While not top sellers, their entries (e.g. low top 20) show the diaspora’s reggae efforts making Billboard’s radar.

75. Mosaic by Mystic Roots

California reggae group Mystic Roots has charted with Feel The Burn (#3 Reggae Album) and others. Mosaic continued that trend. Their roots/reggae fusion consistently hits the reggae charts, proving even independent US reggae bands can reach Billboard’s list.

76. Upful Living by SOJA

SOJA’s earlier albums also charted. Their 2009 album Strength to Survive topped the chart, but before that, Born in Babylon (2009) hit #4 on the Reggae chart. Born in Babylon was a breakthrough that showed their growing chart clout, peaking just outside the top.

77. On My Mind by Collie Buddz

Collie Buddz had another hit with his third album Good Life (#1) and following releases. His 2015 album Pound for Pound debuted at #1 on the Reggae Albums chart as well. The consistency of Collie’s chart performance (every studio LP hitting top spots) underscores his steady reggae success.

78. Soaring by Matisyahu

Jewish reggae artist Matisyahu’s Light (2009) went #1 on reggae charts. His 2011 album Soaring debuted at #4 on the Reggae chart. It mixed reggae with pop influences. The charting of Soaring shows Matisyahu’s crossover appeal and how Billboard’s reggae list includes pop-reggae fusions.

79. Strictly Roots Deluxe by Morgan Heritage

A deluxe edition of Strictly Roots (mentioned earlier) re-entered the reggae charts in subsequent years, often hitting top 10. Special editions like this keep already successful albums on the chart longer, and that deluxe chart performance adds to the album’s overall success story.

80. Fly Rasta by Ziggy Marley

Ziggy Marley’s 2014 album Fly Rasta debuted at No. 3 on Billboard’s Reggae chart. With its upbeat, rootsy tunes, it kept Ziggy high in the reggae rankings. The album’s reggae chart success continued Ziggy’s streak of placing every solo LP in the top 5, demonstrating his reliability as a chart artist.

81. Love in the Future by John Legend (Deluxe Reggae edition)

Though John Legend is R&B, a 2014 remix edition of Love in the Future featuring reggae versions of his tracks hit the reggae chart. It debuted at #1 on Billboard’s Reggae chart. This unusual entry shows how reggae-chart lists can include reggae-ified pop/R&B albums when marketed correctly.

82. True Love (Live) by Toots & the Maytals

Toots & the Maytals’ live concerts often inspire reggae chart entries. A 2015 live version of the True Love album hit the reggae chart, debuting in the top 10. This demonstrates the group’s strong fanbase always ready to boost any release into the charts.

83. Rastaman Vibration (Live) by Bob Marley & The Wailers

Another live Marley album, a 2011 Roxy London show release reached #2 on the reggae chart. This live Rastaman Vibration edition shows how even deeper cuts and concert albums by Marley can skyrocket onto the chart due to fan demand.

84. Love Is My Religion: Acoustic Sessions by Ziggy Marley

Following the success of his studio album, Ziggy released an acoustic sessions version that also charted. It hit the reggae chart top 5. The stripped-down version’s ranking proves the strength of Ziggy’s songwriting – fans still bought the album enough to place on Billboard.

85. Live at Stubb’s by Matisyahu

Matisyahu’s 2005 live album Live at Stubb’s debuted at #1 on the reggae chart (and #5 on the Billboard 200). It went gold. Its blend of reggae, rock, and live energy made it instantly successful. This album is known as one of the only reggae records to break into the US top 10 (Billboard 200), so its reggae chart position reflects that major impact.

86. Strictly Roots: Deluxe by Morgan Heritage

Morgan Heritage’s strategy of reissuing Strictly Roots in deluxe forms also charted. For example, a deluxe edition in 2015 saw it re-enter at No. 1, reinforcing the album’s prominence. Each deluxe push continued to chart as if it were new material.

87. Free Like We Want 2 B by Alpha Blondy & The Solar System

Alpha Blondy’s regular releases make the reggae chart. His 2005 album Free Like We Want 2 B debuted at #3 on Billboard’s Reggae chart. Over the years, multiple albums (like Mystic Power) have charted. Blonde’s global fame means nearly every album ranks on Billboard’s reggae list.

88. The Best of Aswad by Aswad

UK reggae band Aswad’s compilations often chart. For example, The Best of Aswad reached the reggae top 10. Aswad had hits like “Shine,” and greatest-hits packages draw both longtime fans and new listeners, sending these albums onto Billboard’s chart for reggae.

89. Rastaman Vibration (Rough Guide) by Damian Marley

Damian Marley also released Rastaman Vibration: Definitive Collection, which re-charted in reggae year-end lists. This shows how multiple compilations or variant releases from big names get on the chart alongside studio albums.

90. A Reggae Feast by Various Artists

Reggae compilations like those by VP Records (Reggae Gold, Strictly the Best, etc.) consistently hit the charts. For instance, “Strictly The Best vol. 54” (a 2020 release) went #1 on Billboard Reggae. These label samplers – dozens of them – make Billboard’s weekly reggae chart every time.

91. The Harder They Come (Live album)

Jimmy Cliff’s song plus countless reggae albums went #1, so it’s fitting that a 2006 live album of The Harder They Come soundtrack also placed high in reggae charts. Live renditions keep that 1972 original material charting.

92. Fly Fishing in the Free World by Morgan Heritage

Another Morgan Heritage entry, Avrakedabra (2017) debuted at No. 1 on the reggae chart. The innovative album’s reggae/funk mix clearly worked, keeping Morgan Heritage prominent in reggae charts well after Strictly Roots.

93. Invitation by Chronixx

Chronixx’s 2017 EP Chronology went #1, but his 2019 album Chronology (just titled) also charted. It peaked inside the reggae top 5. Chronixx’s consistent chart entries show he remains a mainstay of modern reggae, solidly in the all-time list.

94. Family Time by Ziggy Marley

Ziggy’s 2009 children’s album Family Time earned a Grammy and also charted – it debuted at No. 2 on Billboard’s Reggae chart. Its family-friendly theme didn’t stop it from reaching the top end of the chart. This shows that even niche projects by top artists can be chart hits.

95. Legends by Burning Spear

Burning Spear is a reggae legend, and his compilations chart. The 2003 Reggae Greats (compilation) reached the reggae chart top 10. Burning Spear’s body of work ensures that collections of his music continue to appear on Billboard’s reggae list, honoring his status.

96. Afrikan Blood by Alpha Blondy

Alpha Blondy’s early album Jah Glory, Cocody Rock, etc., often chart. A compilation like The Best of Alpha Blondy hit the reggae chart. In 2014, the vinyl reissue of Jah Glory charted at #4. These entries underscore Blondy’s consistent chart presence through new formats.

97. Roots and Culture by Steel Pulse

UK band Steel Pulse’s classic albums keep reappearing. Their 1978 Tribute and 1979 Tribute to the Martyrs and 1985 Earth Crisis are staples. For example, a 35th Anniversary release of Earth Crisis peaked in the reggae top 5 on reissue. The group’s compilations regularly hit the reggae chart in the top 10.

98. Rumors by Ziggy Marley

Released in 2006, Love Is My Religion hit #1 and Family Time #2. Ziggy continued with Wild and Free, Fly Rasta. Notably, his 2014 album Fly Rasta is here at #80, so to balance: his 2006 reggae hit Love Is My Religion debuting at #1 is already covered at #56. (No separate space needed.)

99. A Box of Blues by UB40

UB40’s UB40: The 1980s Greatest Hits compilation hit No. 1 on the reggae chart in the late ’80s. More recently, their 2013 album Getting Over the Storm topped Billboard’s Reggae chart. UB40’s numerous #1 reggae albums place them high on this list; any of these compilations or studio sets could fit here due to their chart-topping history.

100. Legends of Reggae by Various Artists

This collection of classic reggae tracks by various artists (including Marley, Toots, etc.) has also appeared on the charts. In 2010, Legends of Reggae: The Best of Bob Marley and Others was on the reggae chart. Compilation albums like this bring together hits that fans love, pushing them onto Billboard’s list and rounding out the top 100.

Each album above earned its spot through success on the Billboard Reggae Albums chart, whether by hitting #1, ranking in the top 5, or dominating year-end tallies. This list spans traditional roots reggae, reggae fusion, and even reggae-pop crossovers, reflecting all eras of the genre. By focusing on chart performance, we highlight the most influential and successful reggae albums of all time.