The Siposium - Beyond Bob: Exploring the History, Sound & Soul of Reggae

You know Bob Marley. But do you know reggae?

Most people's introduction to the genre begins and ends with one name, and while Bob Marley is undeniably its greatest ambassador, reggae is a world unto itself that stretches far beyond him. Its roots run deep into Jamaican history, its branches spread wide into ska, rocksteady, dub, and dancehall, and its influence quietly shaped genres across the globe that most people wouldn't immediately connect to a Kingston studio in the 1960s.

This Siposium, we're going beyond Bob. Expect the full story: the cultural and historical forces that gave birth to reggae, the producers and players who shaped its sound, the subgenres most people have never explored, the musical elements that make it distinct, and a curated playlist to take home and actually listen to.

Whether you're a lifelong fan or someone who only knows the greatest hits, you'll leave hearing reggae, and a lot of other music, differently.

Bio: Originally from the Toledo, OH area, Joe didn't like reggae the first time he heard it because he couldn't make sense of it. When he was 19, he went to his first live reggae show, the epiphany hit him, and he hasn't looked back. After 32 years and counting of playing reggae with bands throughout Ohio and immersion in the style, he's developed deep knowledge of the lore, history, players, culture, and more, especially classic roots and culture reggae, dub, rocksteady, ska, and more. His playing experience, which continues today, has included The Ark Band, Groovemaster, Seefari, Dougie Simpson and the Faith Band, Roots Society, Demolition Crew, 6 Degrees of Dub, All Star Jammerz, and more.