Reggae music originated in Jamaica. It is a combination of elements from rhythm and blues, jazz, calypso and other sounds of Africa and Latin America. It uses guitar, bass, keyboards, horns, and drums (including steel drums). It is also known for its accents on the offbeat.
While listening to this song, identify the instruments played. (guitar, drum set, steel drums)
Sing the melody of the song together. Are there any words that are spoken instead of sung? (Don't worry, be happy now.)
Once students are confident with the melody, learn the harmony for the song on doo which is sung in lines 15-20 of the score.
Off-beat accompaniment: Distribute drums that are either different in size (bongos, congas) or can be played using various tones (djembes).
On the board, write the following rhythm: Rest, ti-ti, rest, ta.
Students with a single drum will play an open tone (played in the center of the drum and allowing it to ring) for the first two eighth notes (ti-ti). Use a slap (played at the edge of the drum with the tips of the fingers, or place on the side of one hand at the edge of the drum before slapping the edge with the other) for the quarter note (ta).
For students playing bongo drums, play the lower drum (larger drum) on the eighth notes and the higher drum (smaller drum) on the quarter note.
on the third note.
To perform, combine singing the melody and harmony with the drum accompaniment.
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