How Do You Play Ska Music?
Ska music was founded in Jamaica in the late 1950’s. Today it has been popularized by bands such as The Mighty Mighty Bosstones, Reel Big Fish and The Aquabats. There are many different versions of what ska consists of, but most ska contains four vital elements: a walking bass line, offbeat rhythms (usually guitar and/or keyboard), 4/4 time signature (percussion) and a lead melody played by horns. Ska music sounds best with a full band; however, each member must be able to hold his own on his chosen instrument. Listen to as much ska as possible. Search your local record stores and online for as many different ska bands that you can find. These should span all eras of the genre going back to early Jamaican ska to the newer bands on the cutting edge of the genre. Determine your influences. Pick two to four bands that really stand out to you. Listen to their songs carefully for every part of the music. Try to notice the similarities between songs, and what musical motifs stand out for the
