The 1980s was when Reggae finally hit the mainstream. Sure, Bob Marley enjoyed a bit of exposure in the 70s, and there were classic rock knockoffs of that distinct Jamaican sound (Led Zeppelin, Eric Clapton, Blondie, etc.) But in the 80s, we began to see actual reggae tunes (albeit with pop aesthetics) hit charts and hearts beyond Jamaica and Britain, and dancehall styles began to influence hip hop.
And the 1980s was when I began to learn about and love reggae music. This mix has a few classics, a few chart-toppers, and a few not-so-well-known tunes which rank among my favourites.