Toots and the Maytals are a legendary band in the genre of reggae and ska. If you love their vibrant rhythms and soulful melodies, you’ll likely enjoy these other artists and bands that bring a similar energy and style to their music. Here are 20 bands and artists that you should definitely check out.

1. Bob Marley and the Wailers

Bob Marley and the Wailers are perhaps the most iconic name in reggae music. Known for timeless hits like “No Woman, No Cry” and “One Love,” their albums such as Legend have left an indelible mark on the genre.

2. Peter Tosh

Peter Tosh was a founding member of the Wailers and later had a successful solo career. His songs “Legalize It” and “Johnny B. Goode” are reggae classics, and his album Equal Rights is a must-listen.

3. Jimmy Cliff

Jimmy Cliff is another reggae legend known for his uplifting and political songs. Tracks like “The Harder They Come” and “Many Rivers to Cross” from the album The Harder They Come soundtrack are essential listens.

4. Burning Spear

Burning Spear, aka Winston Rodney, is a roots reggae artist whose music often focuses on themes of Rastafarian spirituality. Albums like Marcus Garvey and songs such as “Slavery Days” are highly influential.

5. Steel Pulse

Steel Pulse is a British reggae band known for their politically charged lyrics and energetic performances. Their album Handsworth Revolution features hits like “Ku Klux Klan” and “Macka Splaff.”

6. Black Uhuru

Black Uhuru is a Grammy-winning reggae group known for their innovative sound. Songs like “Guess Who’s Coming to Dinner” and “Sinsemilla” from the album Red are fan favorites.

7. Gregory Isaacs

Gregory Isaacs, also known as the “Cool Ruler,” is famous for his smooth voice and romantic reggae tunes. Hits like “Night Nurse” and “Rumours” from the album Night Nurse are beloved by fans.

8. Culture

Culture, led by Joseph Hill, is known for their roots reggae sound and socially conscious lyrics. Their album Two Sevens Clash and songs like “See Them A Come” are highly regarded in the reggae community.

9. The Skatalites

The Skatalites are pioneers of ska music, a precursor to reggae. Known for instrumental tracks like “Guns of Navarone” and “Phoenix City,” their album Ska Authentic is a classic.

10. Desmond Dekker

Desmond Dekker is best known for his hit “Israelites,” which brought reggae to international audiences. His album 007 Shanty Town is filled with catchy, ska-infused tracks.

11. The Specials

The Specials are a British ska band that helped revive the genre in the late 1970s. Songs like “A Message to You, Rudy” and “Ghost Town” from their self-titled debut album are iconic.

12. Toots Hibbert

Toots Hibbert, the frontman of Toots and the Maytals, also had a successful solo career. His solo work includes hits like “Pressure Drop” and “54-46 Was My Number,” which remain reggae staples.

13. Third World

Third World blends reggae with elements of soul, funk, and disco. Their hit “Now That We Found Love” and the album 96° in the Shade are perfect examples of their eclectic style.

14. Inner Circle

Inner Circle is best known for their song “Bad Boys,” which became the theme for the TV show Cops. Their album Bad to the Bone features other hits like “Sweat (A La La La La Long).”

15. UB40

UB40 is a British reggae/pop band known for their smooth covers and original hits. Songs like “Red Red Wine” and “Can’t Help Falling in Love” from the album Labour of Love are fan favorites.

16. Alpha Blondy

Alpha Blondy is a reggae artist from the Ivory Coast who sings in multiple languages. His song “Jerusalem” and the album Cocody Rock showcase his unique blend of reggae and African rhythms.

17. Bunny Wailer

Bunny Wailer, another founding member of the Wailers, had a successful solo career. His album Blackheart Man and songs like “Dreamland” are essential listens for reggae fans.

18. Lee “Scratch” Perry

Lee “Scratch” Perry is a legendary producer and artist known for his innovative dub reggae style. Albums like Super Ape and tracks such as “Disco Devil” have been highly influential.

19. The Heptones

The Heptones are known for their harmonious vocal style and classic reggae sound. Songs like “Book of Rules” and “Party Time” from the album Party Time are beloved by fans.

20. Dennis Brown

Dennis Brown, often called the “Crown Prince of Reggae,” is known for his soulful voice and prolific output. Hits like “Money in My Pocket” and albums such as Visions of Dennis Brown are reggae essentials.

Explore these artists and bands to further immerse yourself in the rich and diverse world of reggae music.