Jamaican ska is a music genre that originated in Jamaica in the late 1950s. It combines elements of Caribbean mento and American jazz, characterized by a fast tempo and upbeat rhythm. The music typically features offbeat guitar or piano chords, a strong bass line, and brass instruments, creating a lively sound that encourages dancing. Ska music played a significant role in the development of reggae and rocksteady, influencing many artists and bands worldwide. Notable ska bands include The Skatalites and Toots and the Maytals, who helped popularize the genre both in Jamaica and internationally during the 1960s.