Deep bass, reverb, and space: the sound of the echo chamber. 68–91 BPM.
Dub Reggae is a subgenre of reggae that originated in Jamaica in the late 1960s. It involves remixing existing reggae recordings by emphasizing drum and bass, adding reverb, echo, and other studio effects. Dub pioneers like King Tubby and Lee "Scratch" Perry transformed the mixing console into an instrument.
The defining artists of Dub Reggae — the names that shaped the sound. Tap to hear on Spotify.
The classic anthems and current essentials that define Dub Reggae.
Dub Reggae is characterized by a heavy, pulsating bassline and crisp, syncopated drum patterns. The rhythm is often sparse, with space between instruments filled by reverb and echo effects. Tracks frequently feature sudden drop-outs, where instruments cut out, leaving only drums and bass, creating a sense of anticipation and release.
The overall feel is hypnotic and spacious, with a deep, resonant low end. Producers use effects like phasing, flanging, and tape delay to create a psychedelic, otherworldly atmosphere. The tempo is typically slow to mid-tempo, around 68-91 BPM.
Dub Reggae originated in Jamaica around 1968, pioneered by sound system operators and recording engineers like King Tubby and Lee "Scratch" Perry. They began creating instrumental versions of reggae tracks, stripping away vocals and emphasizing the rhythm section with heavy bass and drums.
Throughout the 1970s, dub evolved as producers used the mixing board as an instrument, adding reverb, echo, delay, and other effects. This experimental approach influenced genres like post-punk, ambient, and electronic music.
Dub became a cultural force in Jamaica, providing a soundtrack for sound system dances and influencing the development of dancehall and reggae. Its impact spread globally, inspiring artists in the UK, US, and beyond.
How Dub Reggae is built — drum pattern, swing, and the sounds you need.
Dub production revolves around the mixing console. Start with a reggae rhythm track (drums, bass, guitar, keys). Use heavy compression on the bass and kick drum to create a punchy, sustained low end. Apply reverb and delay to individual elements, especially snare and vocal snippets. Use the faders to create dynamics: drop instruments in and out, leaving space for echo trails.
Typical BPM is 70-85, with a laid-back, swinging feel. The drum pattern often features a one-drop beat (kick on beat 3) or rockers beat (kick on beats 1 and 3). Use spring reverb, tape echo, and phaser effects. Sample reggae vocal phrases or horns, apply heavy effects, and mix them low. The goal is a deep, spacious, and immersive sound.
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