The Jamaica Observer rounds out its celebration of reggae’s 50th anniversary with the personal top-10 reggae songs of all time by well-known personalities.

It’s difficult to choose a top 10 in reggae music, given the rich volume of songs produced by so many great artistes over the past 50 years. Indeed, any Top-10 list will be subject to criticism, but hey, what’s life without controversy? So here goes, and please note, this list is not in order of priority.

1. Concrete Jungle — Bob Marley and the Wailers: Classic social commentary from the early days of the Wailers reflecting the harsh reality of the life experiences of people in Kingston’s inner cities.

2. Equal Rights — Peter Tosh: “The Rebel” delivers one of the most potent songs ever that awakens the conscience of the State.

3. Revolution — Dennis Brown: The Crown Prince of Reggae in militant form. One of the best protest songs ever. 4. Earth Crisis — Steel Pulse: Stark and frank commentary on international events and their impact on the world’s peoples.

5. Greetings — Half Pint: Powerful, almost hypnotic music that simply lights up any dance even now.

6. Hills and Valleys — Buju Banton: “The Gargamel” at his lyrical best. Message music with great arrangement.

7. Steppin’ Out A Babylon — Marcia Griffiths: Excellent song of praise, worship and faith.

8. How Can You — Third World: A great song that is often overlooked in any debate about reggae’s best. Tight arrangement typical of Third World with lyrics that force you to think.

9. Book Of Rules — The Heptones: Sweet melody and harmony with piercing lyrics.

10. Israelites — Desmond Dekker and The Aces: A timeless masterpiece that became the first reggae number one in the United Kingdom.