Reggae originated in Jamaica in the late 1960s in Kingston. It developed from earlier Jamaican folk music styles like mento and ska, blending influences from jazz, R&B, and African musical traditions. Reggae is characterized by rhythmic guitar playing, off-beat drum patterns, and a bass line. Some of the most influential early reggae artists included Bob Marley and his band The Wailers. Bob Marley helped spread reggae's popularity internationally before his death in 1981. His son Ziggy Marley has also had a successful career in reggae music and social activism.