Mento music is filled with lively melodies, witty lyrics, and rhythms that make you want to dance. From storytelling classics like Day-O and Linstead Market, to upbeat party tunes like Rukumbine, these songs capture the heart and soul of Jamaica’s first popular music genre.

Explore: beloved mento classics

Mento music is more than just entertainment—it’s a reflection of Jamaica’s history, humor, and resilience as reflected in these selections:

• Day-O (The Banana Boat Song) – A folk classic made famous by Harry Belafonte, rooted in traditional Mento rhythms.
• Linstead Market – A lively tune capturing the spirit of Jamaica’s bustling marketplaces.
• Rukumbine – A danceable track showcasing Mento’s infectious energy.
• Hill and Gully Rider – A rhythmic favorite, embodying the call-and-response style of Mento.

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Listen: our curated playlist