In his insightful 2007 feature “Reggae Music in Colombia” on Jamaicans.com, writer Xavier Murphy sits down with Colombian reggae promoter and DJ Bonilla Silva to explore how the soulful rhythms of reggae have taken root and flourished in Latin America. Through their conversation, Murphy captures more than just the sound — he reveals a story of passion, cultural exchange, and resilience that continues to shape Colombia’s vibrant reggae movement today.
Murphy’s interview flows with warmth and curiosity, offering readers a window into how reggae traveled from the shores of Jamaica to the streets of Cartagena and Bogotá. What stands out is the movement’s heart: a grassroots community of artists, promoters, and fans who see reggae not only as music, but as a message of unity and liberation.
“Reggae in Colombia is more than music — it’s a bridge between Africa, Jamaica, and Latin America.”
🌍 The Journey of Reggae to Colombia
According to Bonilla Silva, reggae’s arrival in Colombia was no accident — it was born from centuries of shared rhythm and cultural exchange across the Caribbean. The Festival de Música del Caribe in Cartagena played a central role in introducing reggae to Colombian audiences. This festival, which celebrates the musical traditions of the wider Caribbean, became a gateway for artists from Jamaica and other islands to share their sounds with a Latin American audience eager for something soulful and revolutionary.
Through these performances, Colombian listeners were introduced to the timeless messages of Freddie McGregor, Dennis Brown, and Burning Spear — artists whose music carried themes of faith, freedom, and resistance that resonated deeply with local youth. Over time, these influences sparked a new generation of Colombian artists, DJs, and producers committed to keeping roots reggae alive in Spanish-speaking lands.
🎙 Challenges and Triumphs in the Colombian Scene
Silva’s reflections reveal the ongoing struggles faced by reggae lovers in Colombia. Despite its emotional power, reggae remains a niche genre compared to mainstream Latin styles like reggaetón, salsa, or pop.
Challenges: Language barriers often make it difficult for reggae lyrics — rich in Jamaican patois and Rastafarian philosophy — to fully connect with Spanish-speaking audiences. In addition, limited airplay and the absence of dedicated reggae radio stations restrict the genre’s exposure.
Yet these challenges have not dimmed the passion of Colombia’s reggae faithful.
Triumphs: Across cities like Bogotá, Medellín, and Cali, small but loyal communities have kept the fire burning. Local sound systems, underground radio programs, and festivals such as Festival Reggae Colombia have created spaces for cultural exchange and spiritual upliftment. Silva’s own radio show, “Rastafari,” remains a beacon for those seeking music that speaks to consciousness and peace.
“The music is a universal language — we may speak Spanish, but the rhythm speaks for us.”
❤️ Reflection and Connection to RCM
At Reggae Cultural Movement (RCM), Bonilla Silva’s story strikes a familiar chord. His journey embodies the mission we share — to preserve, promote, and spread reggae consciousness beyond borders. Reggae, after all, is not limited by geography or language; it is a universal heartbeat that unites people through rhythm, resistance, and love.
Colombia’s reggae evolution mirrors the broader global movement: small communities coming together to celebrate truth, identity, and unity through sound. From street festivals to late-night radio, every beat carries a message of empowerment.
As RCM continues to build bridges between reggae communities worldwide, we recognize and celebrate the Colombian scene as a vital part of the global reggae family. Bonilla Silva’s dedication reminds us that the spirit of roots reggae — its call for equality, justice, and peace — continues to inspire new generations across every continent.
We invite readers to explore Xavier Murphy’s full feature on Jamaicans.com and to dive deeper into the stories of the DJs, promoters, and musicians keeping reggae alive across Latin America. Together, we celebrate the unstoppable rise of reggae culture — from Kingston to Cartagena, and beyond.
✨ Discover more at reggaeculturalmovement.com — and feel the rhythm that knows no borders.
