What is Ragga Soca?

Ragga Soca, is a fusion of reggae beats and Soca riddims. According to Meagan Sylvester in “Ragga Soca: Burning the Moral Compass – An Analysis of Hellfire Lyrics in the Music of Bunji Garlin,” this genre represents a significant aspect of Trinidadian youth culture, with Bunji Garlin being one of its prominent figures.  Sewer notes that Ragga Soca originated in Jamaica around the era of Byron Lee and the Dragonaires, merging Soca with reggae rather than Dancehall. 

One of the pioneering tracks in this genre is “Pump Me Up” by Edwin Yearwood. This song, which blends Dancehall with Soca, became highly influential across carnivals in the English-speaking Caribbean due to its distinctive slower tempo and Edwin Yearwood’s unique vocal style. Its impact on the genre makes it a key entry in any list of influential Ragga Soca songs.

While “Pump Me Up” was a major influence, the song that initially bridged Jamaican Dancehall and Soca was “Ragga Ragga.” This track not only popularized the name Ragga Soca but also gained significant recognition in regions like Colombia and Panama. “Ragga Ragga” remains one of the most iconic Soca songs and even has a Spanish version, highlighting its regional impact and enduring appeal.