Lovers Rock is a sub-genre of reggae music.
Lovers Rock was started by Dennis Harris when he set up his record label named Lover’s Rock at his South East London Studio on Upper Brockley Road with Dennis Bovell, and John Kpiaye.
Lovers Rock, also called Romantic reggae’ was developed in the late 70s and 80s during a period of racial tension, riots and sound systems.
Live performances, dance, comedy sketches, and interviews gave life and visibility to Lovers Rock music and those who adopted it.
Lovers Rock is identified by its romantic music and smooth, soulful melodies, which were a departure from the political and socially conscious themes of roots reggae.
Although Lovers Rock originated in the UK, it has strong connections to Jamaica, as many artists and producers involved in the genre were of Jamaican descent.
The genre gained popularity in Jamaica and other Caribbean countries, as well as in the United States and Canada.
Here is a short list of some notable artists associated with Lovers Rock include: Gregory Isaacs, Dennis Brown, Freddie McGregor, Sugar Minott, Beres Hammond, Maxi Priest, Janet Kay, Carroll Thompson, Louisa Mark, Deborahe Glasgow, JC Lodge, Sanchez, Glen Washington, Bitty McLean, Tarrus Riley, Romain Virgo, Alaine, Etana, Christopher Martin, and Jah Cure.