Keith Richards singled out Toots and the Maytals’ 1998 track ‘Reggae Got Soul’ as an example of “perfect” reggae, praising its rhythm, energy and authenticity. His endorsement matters because Richards, a longstanding admirer of Jamaican music, highlighted the song as embodying qualities that influenced rock musicians including the Rolling Stones.

The track appeared on the album *Ska Father*, released in 1998 by Toots and the Maytals, led by the late Jamaican singer Frederick “Toots” Hibbert. Richards has previously spoken about reggae’s powerful basslines, offbeat rhythms and cultural depth, and described the group’s music as a benchmark for the genre.