Three of Jamaica’s most impactful recording artists have been recognized by Rolling Stone magazine, with Sean Paul, Koffee, and Gyptianlanding on the publication’s list of the 250 Greatest Songs of the 21st Century So Far. The selections span different eras of Jamaican music, from early-2000s dancehall to a modern reggae anthem, showcasing the island’s lasting global influence. 

Sean Paul’s 2002 smash hit “Get Busy” was the highest-ranking Jamaican entry, coming in at number 92.

The track, which topped the Billboard Hot 100, was produced by Steven “Lenky” Marsden using the famous Diwali Riddim. Rolling Stone praised the song as “one of those anthems that serve as a clarion call to the dance floor,” and noted its role in amplifying the sound of the era. 

Making her mark for a younger generation, Koffee’s 2019 single “Toast” ranked at number 203.

The Grammy-winning track was produced by IzyBeats and was hailed by Rolling Stone as an “invigorating banger” with an “invincible hook”. The song, a joyous celebration of gratitude, also earned a place on former U.S. President Barack Obama’s list of favorite songs for 2019. 

Rounding out the trio is Gyptian’s 2010 crossover hit, “Hold Yuh,” which placed at number 125 on the list.

The track, produced by Ricky Blaze, was celebrated for Gyptian’s passionate and raspy vocal performance, which was described as “equal parts sweet and sensual”. Its success led to countless remixes, most famously one featuring Nicki Minaj. 

The inclusion of these three distinct tracks highlights the enduring power and adaptability of Jamaican music. It reinforces how dancehall and reggae have consistently provided foundational rhythms and groundbreaking artists that have shaped the global music landscape throughout the 21st century. 

Songs :

• Sean Paul, “Get Busy” (#92): Released in 2002, this dancehall hit was produced by Steven “Lenky” Marsden using the Diwali Riddim. Rolling Stonecalled it one of the genre’s most famous uses of the beat and described it as “a clarion call to the dance floor”.
• Koffee, “Toast” (#203): This track came out in 2019 and was produced by IzyBeats. Rolling Stone lauded the Grammy-winning single as an “invigorating banger” with an “invincible hook”. The song also made former U.S. President Barack Obama’s list of favorite songs in 2019.
• Gyptian, “Hold Yuh” (#125): The 2010 hit was praised by Rolling Stone for Gyptian’s “passion and rasp” and for being “equal parts sweet and sensual”. It was an international success and has been remixed many times, including a popular version featuring Nicki Minaj.