Ska Music Revision

Comprehensive vocabulary flashcards covering the definitions, history, musical waves, key characteristics, and notable artists of ska music.

Ska

A musical genre that originated in Jamaica in the late 1950s, characterized by a fast, upbeat rhythm, strong bass lines, offbeat guitar or piano chords, and brass instruments.

Kingston

The capital of Jamaica where the ska musical genre developed.

Mento

Traditional Jamaican music that was one of the early musical influences on ska.

Calypso

Caribbean music originating in Trinidad and Tobago that influenced the development of ska.

Sound systems

Mobile music systems in Jamaica used to play records at public dances, which influenced the development of ska.

First wave ska (Jamaican Ska)

The initial wave of ska during the late 1950s to 1960s that originated in Jamaica, gained popularity in the early 1960s, and was closely tied to Jamaican independence and national identity.

1962

The year Jamaica gained independence from Britain, an event closely associated with first-wave ska.

Rocksteady

A musical style that ska evolved into around 1966, characterized by a slower rhythm and greater emphasis on bass lines and vocals, which later influenced reggae.

2 Tone

The second wave of ska that emerged in the United Kingdom during the late 1970s to 1980s, combining Jamaican ska, punk, and reggae influences with themes of multiculturalism and anti-racism.

Third wave ska (Ska Punk)

A 1990s movement centered in the United States that combined traditional ska rhythms with punk rock, featuring electric guitars, brass instruments, and energetic vocals.

The skank

A characteristic guitar or piano rhythm pattern played on the offbeats in ska music.

Offbeat

A weaker part of the musical beat that receives strong emphasis in ska music.

Syncopation

The musical technique of emphasising unexpected beats, frequently found in ska.

The Skatalites

One of the most influential Jamaican first-wave ska bands, known for the song "Guns of Navarone".

Prince Buster

An important Jamaican ska singer and producer who released the song "One Step Beyond" in 1964.

Millie Small

A Jamaican singer whose 1964 song "My Boy Lollipop" helped introduce ska to an international audience.

The Specials

An important British 2 Tone band known for the song "A Message to You, Rudy".

Madness

A British 2 Tone band known for their 1979 track "One Step Beyond", which was a version of Prince Buster's earlier song.

Reel Big Fish

An American third-wave ska punk band known for the 1996 song "Sell Out".