On August 29, 2024, the 2nd edition of the Caribbean Music Awards took place in Brooklyn, United States. More than 152 artists were nominated in 32 categories. Singer Kalash was recognized in the group composed of artists from the French-speaking Caribbean.
Kalash did not make the trip to the legendary King’s Theatre in Brooklyn, New York to attend the 2nd edition of the Caribbean Music Awards. He was elected “Artist of the Year of the French-speaking Caribbean.”
Other musicians nominated in the category were Martinique’s DJ Chinwax, a specialist in dancehall shatta, Guyanese singer Bamby, the group Kassav, Haitian-born singer Phyllisia Ross, DJ Blaiz Fayah and Michael “MR” Robinson from Saint Lucia.
Hosted by Caribbean Elite Magazine, Jamaican singer Spice and comedian Majah Hype hosted the evening which recognized the contributions of artists from the region. The show lasted 5 hours.
Ras l is voted best new reggae artist.
Asa Banton and Mr. Ridge, artists specializing in the bouyon genre created in Dominica, received awards.
Asa Banton from Dominica, voted by the public, best bouyon singer 2024. • ©X@meloumedia
Asa Banton was chosen by the public while Mr. Ridge, chosen by the jury, was named “artist of the year”.
The artist Riddla from Guadeloupe presented the award to Mr. Ridge. The Dominican wished a “long live creole music and bouyon.”
Trinidadian Nailah Blackman wins Best Soca Collaboration and Best Soca Video. • ©RS
Dexter Daps was voted “Performer of the Year”. Shaggy and Kes won the “Collaboration Award of 2024”.
Spice was named “Artist of the Decade” and Patrice Roberts was named “Artist of 2024.”
The award presentations were punctuated by performances by artists such as Mr. Killa from Grenada who performed his hit, Roly Poly.
The Morgan Heritage group sang as well as Teddyson John from Saint Lucia.
Several artists have been recognized for bringing the region’s music to the four corners of the world.
Haitian group Tabou Combo was recognized for their outstanding contribution to the Caribbean music world.
Calypsonian Mighty Sparrow, 89, was on hand to receive a special award for his 60-year career. He made his entrance on stage in a wheelchair. To a standing ovation from the audience, he sang an excerpt from his song “Congo Man.” He was accompanied by Machel Montano.
Alison Hinds from Barbados was recognized for her long career.
Cedella Marley, Bob’s daughter, was recognized for her contribution to Jamaican music and for her philanthropic work in the sporting and cultural worlds.
Marcia Griffith, reggae singer and backing vocalist with the group Bob Marley and the Wailers, received the final award of the evening.
Singer Shaggy made the introduction. He called Marcia Griffith a member of ““reggae royalty” and a symbol of love.
In accepting her award, Marcia Griffith spoke: “the positive energy of Caribbean music.”
The 2nd edition of the Caribbean Music Awards ended with a cover of the song “Dreamland” by the group Third World.
The song was sung in turn by new singers of Caribbean music like Aiesha.