Ska and rocksteady started in Jamaica in the 1960s and eventually evolved into reggae, dub, dancehall and ragga. The evolution of the music was a natural result of the island's independence. By the 80s, djs would bring sound systems to local clubs so the masses could enjoy live, local music.
Canadian photographer Beth Lesser continually travelled to the island to document the music scene of the 80s and even published a magazine called Reggae Quarterly.
Now you can take a look at some of her best images from the era over at Timeline.
https://timeline.com/one-photographers-amazing-firsthand-look-at-the-1980s-jamaican-dancehall-scene-fb887a8a3d5e#.yx10n9aod