The Beat of Politics: How Reggae and Dancehall Shape Jamaican Elections

A few years back, I penned a piece about the vibrant interplay between Jamaican politics and its beloved reggae and dancehall music. After sharing insights on a radio program recently, I felt compelled to revisit this fascinating topic. From the fiery campaigns of the 1970s to the recent 2025 elections, music has been a powerful tool in shaping political narratives and rallying support.

The Roots of Musical Politics

In the 1970s, under the leadership of Michael Manley, the People’s National Party (PNP) harnessed the energy of reggae to energize their campaigns. One standout track was Neville Martin’s “The Message,” also known as “My Leader Born Yah.” The lyrics celebrated Manley’s Jamaican roots while contrasting them with his rival Edward Seaga’s American origins. Lines like, “My father born ya. My grandmother born ya. I and I born ya. My leader born ya. That’s why I nah leave ya,” became anthems that resonated deeply with supporters.

Delroy Wilson’s “Better Must Come” echoed similar sentiments, capturing the hopes of many Jamaicans during a tumultuous time. Fast forward to the 2000s, and Shaggy’s “Strength of a Woman” became a rallying cry for female voters, symbolizing empowerment during Portia Simpson Miller’s campaign.

The JLP’s Musical Maneuvers

Not to be outdone, the Jamaica Labour Party (JLP) has also embraced music as a campaign strategy. In 2016, they tapped into the youthful energy of Alkaline’s “Champion Boy,” a song not originally intended for political purposes but transformed into a campaign anthem. This clever move helped the JLP connect with younger voters, showcasing the adaptability of music in politics.

A memorable moment in political history occurred in 2018 during a sound clash at Famous Night Club in Portmore. Daryl Vaz of the JLP and Damion Crawford of the PNP engaged in a playful musical battle, with Crawford’s custom dubplates stealing the show. A highlight was a track from incarcerated DJ Vybz Kartel that went viral, illustrating the power of music to captivate audiences.

Social Media and the Soundtrack of Politics

By 2020, social media became a game-changer in Jamaican politics. Customized songs from popular artists like Spice and Beenie Man helped both parties mobilize voters, especially at rallies. The 2025 elections saw both major parties once again lean heavily on dancehall music, with the JLP featuring stars like Mr. Vegas and Shenseea, while the PNP enlisted the likes of Buju Banton and Vybz Kartel.

The PNP’s campaign song, a re-recording of the classic “Blood and Fire,” became a viral sensation, rallying supporters against corruption. One viral video even showed supporters from both parties dancing to the infectious tune, highlighting the unifying power of music in a politically charged atmosphere.

Beyond Jamaica: A Global Influence

The influence of reggae and dancehall extends beyond Jamaican shores. In 2018, Nadine Sutherland’s “Action” was repurposed during the U.S. midterm elections to rally Caribbean-American support for Kamala Harris, showcasing how Jamaican culture can resonate in international politics.

However, not all musical endorsements are welcomed. The dancehall group T.O.K. once objected to their song “Chi Chi Man” being used in a political context due to its controversial lyrics. This incident sparked public debate about the ethics of using music in politics, reminding us that not every song carries a universally positive message.

The Future of Political Soundtracks

As we move beyond the 2025 elections, it’s clear that the rhythm of reggae and dancehall will continue to pulse through Jamaican politics. The ‘get out the vote’ campaigns will always have a soundtrack, powered by custom dubplates that resonate with the heart of the people. Will we see new artists stepping into the political arena, or will the classics continue to reign supreme? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain: in Jamaica, music and politics are forever intertwined.