Sister Nancy Makes History with First-Ever Entry on Billboard Reggae Albums Chart

With a career spanning over four decades, veteran dancehall singer Sister Nancy has achieved her first-ever entry on the Billboard Reggae Albums chart. The pioneering Jamaican artist’s 1982 debut album One, Two has landed at No. 3 on the chart dated April 26, 2025, following a limited-edition vinyl reissue in celebration of Record Store Day.

Pressed on blue vinyl, capped at just 3,000 copies, One, Two was released on April 12 by VPAL Music and Techniques, featuring the original cover art, a sticker sheet, new liner notes by reggae historian John Masouri, and Nancy’s enduring anthem “Bam Bam.” The collector’s piece sold out quickly, helping propel the album onto the prestigious U.S. chart, which measures sales, streaming, and airplay data, compiled by Luminate.

Sister Nancy now stands as the only woman featured in the top ten of the Reggae Albums charts this week—a fitting recognition for the first female DJ to make waves in Jamaica’s male-dominated dancehall scene.

Sister Nancy’s Reaction and Cultural Influence

“This moment is special,” Sister Nancy, born Ophlin Russell in Papine, Jamaica, shared on Instagram after her Record Store Day appearance at VP Records in Queens, New York. “With all the rain, it was a success. Not one of the One Two albums was left, and I’m happy. Thanks VP for inviting me. I had a good time… Nuff love and honor. Blessings. Jah live.”

The resurgence of One, Two adds to a wave of recognition for Sister Nancy’s cultural influence. Her track “Bam Bam” has been sampled and referenced by major global stars including Beyoncé, Lauryn Hill, Jay-Z -whose own “Bam” has been certified Gold in the U.S.- and Kanye West. The song has appeared in films and TV series like No Time to Die, Ozark, and Dexter, and has now amassed over 200 million streams on Spotify, earning silver certification in the UK.

Reggae Albums Chart Update

Sister Nancy’s rise back into the spotlight is part of a broader resurgence of classic reggae and dancehall on the Billboard Reggae Albums chart this week. Also making a notable debut is Peter Tosh’s Greatest Hits, released by Rhino Records, which enters at No. 8. The reissue—originally released only in Brazil in 1987—was also part of Record Store Day and is now available globally on a vibrant red, green, and yellow tri-color vinyl.

Meanwhile, Bob Marley and The Wailers’ Legend: The Best of Bob Marley continues its reign at No. 1, marking its 275th week at the top. Shaggy’s diamond-selling Hot Shot re-enters the chart at No. 2, while Sean Paul claims two spots with The Trinity at No. 4 and Dutty Rock slipping to No. 7.

Sister Nancy’s chart debut along with her timeless voice and trailblazing legacy continues to inspire.

4 Things to Know About One, Two

It Was Sister Nancy’s First and Only Album
One, Two, released in 1982, remains the only full-length album Sister Nancy has ever recorded. Despite her minimal discography, the project secured her legacy as a pioneer for women in reggae and dancehall.
Home to the Iconic Track “Bam Bam”
Arguably one of the most sampled reggae tracks in history, “Bam Bam” has influenced generations of artists across genres. Its infectious hook has appeared in hits by Jay-Z, Lauryn Hill, Beyoncé, and many more.
Produced by Winston Riley
The album was recorded at Kingston’s legendary Channel One studios with producer Winston Riley, the founder of Techniques Records and a key figure in shaping dancehall’s sound in the late ’70s and early ’80s.
Rare Original Pressings Are Collector’s Gold
Original 1982 vinyl pressings of One, Two are considered rare and highly valuable among collectors. The recent 2025 reissue, limited to 3,000 blue vinyl copies, is already following suit.

Conclusion

Sister Nancy’s historic entry on the Billboard Reggae Albums chart is a testament to her enduring legacy and the timelessness of her music. As a pioneer for women in reggae and dancehall, she continues to inspire new generations of artists and fans alike. With the resurgence of classic reggae and dancehall on the charts, Sister Nancy’s music is once again taking center stage, reminding us of the power and influence of her iconic album, One, Two.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is Sister Nancy’s debut album?
A: Sister Nancy’s debut album is One, Two, released in 1982.

Q: What is the significance of Sister Nancy’s entry on the Billboard Reggae Albums chart?
A: Sister Nancy’s entry on the Billboard Reggae Albums chart is historic, as she is the only woman featured in the top ten this week, and it marks her first-ever entry on the chart.

Q: What is the most sampled reggae track in history?
A: Sister Nancy’s track “Bam Bam” is arguably one of the most sampled reggae tracks in history, with its infectious hook appearing in hits by Jay-Z, Lauryn Hill, Beyoncé, and many more.