Playlist. The Ska Foundation
- George
- Aug 22
- 1 min read
Updated: Aug 24
Ska brings together Jamaican folk, American rhythm and blues and jazz. The recordings in this playlist trace the musical evolution.
Starting with Theophilus Beckford’s “Easy Snappin’” in 1956 and ending with the international success of Millie Small’s “My Boy Lollipop” in 1964, artists include The Folkes Brothers, Prince Buster, Derrick Morgan (performing at Supernova International Ska Festival Sept 12+13, click for details) and The Skatalites. They all helped shape the distinctive offbeat rhythm, horn arrangements and energy that became ska.
1956 -- Theophilus Beckford – “Easy Snappin’”
The original Jamaican pop tune.
1960 --The Folkes Brothers – “Oh Carolina”
Produced by Prince Buster and featuring Count Ossie’s drumming, it is one of the foundational recordings of Jamaican ska.
1961 -- Prince Buster – “They Got to Go”
An early Prince Buster recording reflecting the emerging ska sound and the influence of Kingston sound-system culture.
1962 -- Derrick Morgan – “Forward March”
A landmark ska recording associated with Jamaica's independence period and the emerging national identity of the music.
1964 -- The Skatalites – “Man in the Street”
A classic instrumental showcasing the horn-driven, jazz-influenced sound of the Skatalites.
1964 -- Millie Small – “My Boy Lollipop”
One of ska's biggest international successes, helping introduce the Jamaican sound to audiences around the world.
Supernova Ska Festival
September 12+13
Fort Monro, Virgina
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