37th IRAWMA AWARDS MAGAZINE by ephraimmartin

7-record vinyl-only box set of 7-inch singles on the collectible Roots From The Yard label highlights VP Records’ early years, when records were pressed on behalf of independent producers on a variety of sublabels including Roots From The Yard. The set includes tracks from Barrington Levy (“A Yah Me Deh”), Bim Sherman (“Mighty Ruler”), The Mighty Fantells (“Every Where”), Junior Delgado (“Tishan”), Freddie McKay (“I Man”/”Creation”), Earth & Stone (“Wicked Haffe Dress Back”), and Linval Thompson (“Roll River Jordan”).

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Contents 5-IRAWMA Founder/President Greetings 7-Hon. Olivia Grange, CD, MP Minister of Culture, Gender, Entertainment and Sport 9-Hon. Andrew Holness, ON, MP Prime Minister 13-The 37th International Reggae & World Music Awards(IRAWMA) Returns to Jamaica 15-Tony Rebel and Koffee Hosts the 37th IRAWMA 17-The 37th IRAWMA Program 19-IRAWMA Hall of Fame: Mutabaruka, Tony Rebel, Boris Gardiner 21-IRAWMA Freedom Fighter: Rev. Jessie L. Jackson, Sr. 21-Emperor of Reggae & World Music: Bob Marley(Posthumously) 23-IRAWMA Person of the Year: Hon. Olivia Grange, CD, MP Minister of Culture, Gender, Entertainment and Sport 23-IRAWMA Entrepreneur of the Year: Josef Bogdanovich 23-IRAWMA Reggae Lovers Rock Legend Award: Beres Hammond 24-IRAWMA Reggae Culture Legend Award: Capleton 24-IRAWMA Dancehall Icon Award: Bounty Killer 25-IRAWMA Award of Honor: Clifton “Specialist” Dillion, Kensey VP Records, Top One Frisson 26/27-The 37th IRAWMA Nominees & Categories 29-“TheReggae50” Introduction 30-“TheReggae50” Honorees: Rita Marley, Freddie McGregor, Bunny Wailer, Copeland Forbes 31-“TheReggae50” Honorees: Chris Blackwell, Marcia Griffiths, U Roy, Inner Circle 33-“TheReggae50” Honorees: Judy Mowatt, Ibo Cooper, Tommy Cowan, The Skatalites 35- Six Honorees for the IRAWMA Award for Exceptional Media Contribution to Reggae over the Years 37-“TheReggae50” Honorees: Lee Perry, Toots Hibbert, Third World, The Heptones 38-“TheReggae50” Honorees: Bob Andy, Sly & Robbie, Johnny Nash, Alpha Boys Band 39-IRAWMA Performers 41-Gone Too Soon: In Memoriam 42- IRAWMA Photo Flashbacks Martin’s International Culture International Reggae & World Music Awards Magazine 1325 S. Wabash, Suite 307 Chicago, IL 60605-2536 312-427-0266(P) 312-427-0268(F) URL: www.irawma.com EM: irawma@gmail.com The International Reggae & World Music Awards Magazine is published by Martin’s International Culture, 1325 S. Wabash, Suite 307, Chicago, IL 60605-2536. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Martin’s International Culture, 1325 S. Wabash, Suite 307, Chicago, IL 60605-2536. All rights reserved by Martin’s International Culture(2019). Reproduction in part or whole without written permission from the publisher is prohibited.

IRAWMA Staff 37th IRAWMA MIC CEO IRAWMA Producer/Publisher Ephraim Martin Magazine Art Director U.S. Carlos Omar Perez Cover Design Jamaica Cheryl Levy Operations Manager Jamaica Jacqueline Jackson Comptroller U.S. Stephanie Cummings Trophy Coordinator/Director U.S. Dana Martin CMO/Marketing U.S. Drew Barrett

Musical Director Jamaica Dean Fraser Technical Producer Jamaica Shane Brown FOH/Will Call Jamaica Nadine Sutherland Marshall Greeter Jamaica Nicolette Martin Bailey FOH/Reception Jamaica Lurline Sutherland McPherson

Public Relations Jamaica Angela Thame

Admissions Jamaica Landenie Marshall

Seating Co-Coordinator/ Travel U.S. Martrenia Barnes

Artist Relations Jamaica Teddy Laidley

Models/Trophy Queen Mgr Jamaica Cheryl A. Levy Administrative Assistant/ Social Media Jamaica Toni Foster Associate Stage Director Illinois Tremell Williams Production Manager Jamaica Ryan Bailey

Event Production Clear Sound Jamaica Kelvin Osbourne

TV Consultant Jamaica Winford Williams

Guest Service Coordinator Jamaica Duey Reid Security Coordinator Jamaica Omar Sutherland TV/Video Production Jamaica TVJ Video Graphics Jamaica Christopher Cranston Advance Video Graphics U.S. Urban Grind TV Wally Lockard

Trophy Manager U.S. Nancy Toledo Trophy Assistant U.S. Theresa Kinkle Presenters Seating Jamaica Karlene Levy Ground/Hotel Mgr Jamaica Beverly Stewart Reception/Seating Mgr U.S. Vernon Lloyd Red Carpet/Reception Beverly Lloyd Richard Long Dwight Wordlaw Seating/Reception U.S. Marcia Deans Trophy Assistant U.S. Leslie Deans First Aid/ Performers Seating U.S. Patricia Gordon

New York Media/ Special Services Clifton Edwards Austin McBean Howard Smith Choreographer Donna Ray Artist Relations Abebe Lewis Michelle Susan Anne-Marie Oyugah Garnett Newman Jacqueline Hill Ticket Promotions Corlis E. Law Volunteer Coordinator Thomas Spann

Seating Assistant U.S. Will Smith

Artists Relations/ Reception Assistant Angele Snyder

General Assistant U.S. Kiki Tracey

Stage Designer/ Marketing/ Promotions Sandy Simmons Johnny Rich, Jr

IRAWMA Photographer Jamaica Mark Bell Africa Rep Berku Owusu Akoto Pauline Owusu Akoto Africa Performers Liaison Grace Haukwa Simba Yangala

Promotions Lee Buckley Special Services Kevin Martin Artistic Director/ Choreographer Donnaray Roc

various countries. IRIE FM which serves as our official radio partner every time that IRAWMA comes to Jamaica is again our major radio partner, and we want to say a special thanks to them and all our international media partners and supporters. On this important night of recognition of excellence in reggae and world music, we are honoring those who were nominated by our panel of music industry experts; and voted on and selected by the public/fans at large; especially, the ones who will be affirmed the winners. We congratulate and salute “TheReggae50”receipients, the Special Lifetime and other Honorees who have made extraordinary contributions to the music industry and the world community whom honors will be bestowed upon tonight. IRAWMA first came to Jamaica at Club Inferno, Montego Bay in 1991 to celebrate its 10th Anniversary. In 2001 we returned to Renaissance Jamaica Grande, Ocho Rios for our 20th Anniversary, which was a huge success; especially for the hotel and tourist industry, who requested our return the following year 2002; before we headed to New York for the following eight years, primarily at the world’s famous Apollo Theater. As we listened to the Minister of Culture, Gender, Entertainment and Sports, the Honorable Olivia “Babsy” Grange, those in the music industry locally and abroad, we were left with no choice but to indefinitely make Jamaica the home of the annual International Reggae and World Music Awards (IRAWMA)! When we started both the Chicago Music Awards and IRAWMA in 1982, there were no forms of recognition for Chicagoland entertainers, nor for reggae and world music entertainers at the international level. We then made a commitment to start the two Awards ceremonies; not just to honor entertainers, but as a vehicle of expression for the voiceless peoples of the world, an end to apartheid, the freedom of Nelson Mandela and to bring nations together thru music and culture. Though Nelson Mandela is now free for eternity, after 37 years we remain ever more committed to our original goals. For this the seventh time in our 34 year history, Martin’s International is pleased to be bTwo Let me finally; express our sincere thanks to the years ago we returned to Jamaica to talk with those in the music industry about the plans participating sponsors, advertisers, donors, media for “TheReggae50”, but no one seems to have realized that the 50th year of reggae was and fans for helping to make the IRAWMA approaching. After discussions with many in the music industry, on January 1, 2018, we successful for thirty-seven consecutive years! officially launched “TheReggae50” in celebration of fifty years of reggae from 1968/69 to I would like to give heartfelt thanks to our dedicated 2018/19, dedicated all four of our 2018 Special events to fifty years of reggae and called team, interns and volunteers for working to make on all event promoters worldwide to dedicate their events to “TheReggae50”. With the tonight’s event possible. support of Minister Olivia “Babsy” Grange to return IRAWMA to Jamaica in 2019 to mark the occasion, tonight we are here celebrating fifty years of reggae at this 37th IRAWMA! Finally, our motto, “Unity is Strength, Forward This is wonderful! Together Music Shall Conquer.” We hope that you Now, on behalf of my wife, Justice Shelvin Louise Marie Hall, our daughter Dana Martin, enjoy this star-studded evening of appreciation, our family, our sponsors, advertisers, staff, interns and volunteers of Martin’s International, honor and respect to its fullest. it gives me great pleasure and pride to welcome you to Reggae’s biggest music night the 37th Annual International Reggae and World Music Awards (IRAWMA). Last year as some of you have known, the 36th IRAWMA was combined with our sister Sincerely Awards, the 37th Chicago Music Awards (CMA) and was televised in the US on NBC TV, our TV partner for more than twenty years. As we are in the home of reggae, our TV partner is RJRGleaner Group - TVJ; nevertheless, Ephraim M. Martin we are expecting to have tonight’s event, post broadcast on NBC and other stations in 5

Ephraim M. Martin

Executive Producer’s Message

the Wiz, Monday Best 6-7 PM

So much more than Entertainment!!!!

R E P LY O R S U B S E Q U E N T REFERENCE TO THIS COMMUNICATION SHOULD BE MADE TO THE PERMANENT S E C R E TA RY A N D T H E FOLLOWING REFERENCE QUOTED: Ref. MYC.955

Ministry of Culture, Gender, Entertainment and Sport 4-6 Trafalgar Road Kingston 5 Jamaica, West Indies Tel: 876-978-7654 Fax: 876-927-8380

MESSAGE BY THE HONOURABLE OLIVIA GRANGE, CD, MP MINISTER OF CULTURE, GENDER, ENTERTAINMENT AND SPORT FOR INTERNATIONAL REGGAE AND WORLD MUSIC AWARDS MAGAZINE 11 April 2019 I want at the very outset to commend Mr. Ephraim Martin and his team on the 37th staging of the International Reggae and World Music Awards on this 11th day of May 2019. The Ministry of Culture, Gender, Entertainment and Sport does not take these events lightly. As Minister, I encourage every activity that promotes and highlights the creativity of our people and, as such, we are quite happy to

partner with the organisers of this event with celebrates the great exponents, past and present, of our globally acclaimed Reggae music. IRAWMA provides a unique opportunity not only to shine the light of excellence and acclaim on our Jamaican Reggae music, with Kingston Creative City as its centerpiece, but also on Reggae’s inﬂuence on other music forms of the world. From humble beginnings based on experimentations and innovations with new rhythms, sounds and images among the nation’s poorest, Reggae music has grown to become listed by UNESCO among the world’s most acclaimed musical

heritage. Whether it was from a “government yard in Trench Town” or “from Jungle to Rema, from Tivoli to Matthews Lane, from Waterhouse to Drewsland, from Payne Land to Delacree”, Reggae music has emerged as the most powerful creation of the humble poor of Jamaica and, in doing so, it has become the platform for many of these people to achieve economic freedom. Reggae also celebrates the artistry, resilience and power of the Jamaican creative imagination.

MESSAGE FROM THE MOST HON. ANDREW HOLNESS, ON, MP PRIME MINISTER 37th ANNUAL INTERNATIONAL REGGAE AND WORLD MUSIC AWARDS (IRAWMA) AND “THE REGGAE50” JAMAICA 2019 Jamaica’s music and culture are renowned across the world. Indeed, reggae music has brought Jamaica fame and notability through its rhythmic sounds and positive vibrations which uplifts and motivates listeners. Reggae music is part of the Jamaican culture and lifestyle which makes Jamaica known in every region and country across the world. The annual International Reggae and World Music Awards (IRAWMA) has been dedicated to the promotion of reggae and world music as an art form and as a natural resource of the people of Jamaica and the rest of the world. It has been showcasing the best of our music, musicians, people and culture for more than 37 years. I extend heartiest congratulations to Martin’s International, the organizers of the IRAWMA and its founder Mr. Ephraim Martin on this showpiece event which highlights the best of the best in reggae and Jamaican culture. Jamaica is honoured to host this event for the 4th time in its 37-year history and this year Kingston will roll the red carpet as the event will be hosted for the first time in our capital city. In addition to IRAWMA, this year the event will coincide with the observation of “TheReggae50; fifty years of reggae from 1968/69 to present. In that regard, this year provides yet another occasion for all Jamaica and indeed the world to celebrate reggae at the IRAWMA. This year, as in previous years, IRAWMA will honour the talents of those involved in several aspects of the music. In its 37 years of staging the event, IRAWMA has honoured and recognized the accomplishments more than 3,000 reggae, entertainment and world music industry members in Jamaica and from various nationalities across the world while some 10,000 persons have been nominated for awards. Tonight, awards will be given in thirty-two categories, plus special honours to thirty-five great achievers in music, humanitarianism, activism and other contributions to humanity. My commendations to all – the organizers, sponsors, nominees, winners and all those who play a part in this event. I wish for you an enjoyable and rewarding evening. The Most Hon. Andrew Holness, ON, MP Prime Minister 9

37th International Reggae & World Music Awards(IRAWMA) Returns to Jamaica On Tuesday, March 19, 2019, all roads lead to the Jamaica Pegasus Hotel in Kingston, Jamaica where Martin’s International returns for the fourth time in its 37 year history to host the official launch of the 37th Annual International Reggae and World Music Awards (IRAWMA) in recognition of Reggae 50, celebrating 50 years of reggae music. Topping off the evening of glitz and glamour on the star-studded red carpet are reggae sensation Koffee and recording artist and promoter Tony Rebel will host the 37th staging of Reggae & World Music’s biggest night! The awards ceremony will sparkle with performances by top Reggae & World Music performers including: Capleton & The Prophecy Band, Freddy McGregor, Top One Frisson(Congo), Fancy Gadam(Ghana), The Heptones, Da Flame, among others. The IRAWMA All Stars Backing Band will be led by Dean Fraser, Musical Director. Who will take home the coveted IRAWMA trophy? This year’s event confirms Martin International’s commitment to promoting greater participation and acceptance of Reggae, Caribbean and World Music, Internationally and will award 161 nominees in 41 categories and 9 special awards including the Bob Marley Award for Entertainer of the Year, Best Crossover Song, Mutabaruka Award for Best Poet/Spoken Word entertainer and the coveted Martin’s International/IRAWMA Award of Honor. Lifetime/Hall of Fame recipients will be: Mutabaruka, Boris Gardiner and Tony Rebel. Hon. Olivia “Babsy” Grange will be honored as “Person of the Year”; the Special “Freedom Fighter” honor will be given to civil rights leader Rev. Jesse L. Jackson, Sr; the “Emperor of Reggae & World Music” will be bestowed posthumously to Bob Marley; the IRAWMA “Reggae Lovers Rock Legend” Award will go to Beres Hammond; and businessman Josef Bogdanovich will receive the IRAMWA Entrepreneur Award. The IRAWMA Award of Honor recipients include: Clifton “Specialist” Dillon, Donald Kinsey, VP Records and Top One Frisson. Capleton will receive the IRAWMA “Reggae Culture Legend” Award and Bounty Killer will receive the IRAWMA “Dancehall Icon” Award. Several journalists will be recognized for their contributions over the years to Reggae music: Barry G, Ka’bu Ma’at Kheru, Dennis Howard, Norma Brown and Winford Williams. On this milestone event, Founder and President and CEO of IRAWMA Ephraim Martin stated “it was just fitting to salute and honor some of reggae’s foundation members, who are still making a difference in the world of reggae from 1968 to present. It the reason two years ago we established “TheReggae50”, with Kingston, Jamaica as the venue.” The foundation members who are being honored are: the Alpha Boys Band, Founder of Island Records Chris Blackwell, Tour Manager and Booking Agent Copeland Forbes, recording artists, Freddie McGregor, Johnny Nash, Judy Mowatt, Bunny Wailer, Lee ‘Scratch’ Perry, Marcia Griffiths, The Heptones, Toots Hibbert, U-Roy, Rita Marley, Third World, Inner Circle, Bob Andy and the Skatalites. Also making the list is musician and former Third World member Ibo Cooper, music rhythm section and production duo Sky & Robbie and producer/ singer Tommy ‘Yes Indeed’ Cowan. “It is not just to honor the best of 2018” states Founder and President of IRAWMA, Ephraim Martin. “But to salute and honor some of reggae’s foundation members, who are still making a difference in the world of reggae from 1968 to present. This year we had an overwhelming amount of nominations which is a testimony to not only the need for Artistes to be recognized for their work, but is evidence of the amount of excellent Reggae and world music makers in Jamaica and around the globe”. Some other nominees are Beres Hammond, Beenie Man, Chronixx, Damian Marley and Vybz Kartel. Established in 1982 to acknowledge and honor the accomplishments and contributions of reggae and world music artists, including: songwriters, performers, promoters and musicians, the IRAWMA has been staged in many major cities including Atlanta, Chicago, Fort Lauderdale, Miami, New Orleans, New York as well as Port of Spain, Trinidad and both Montego Bay and Ocho Rios in Jamaica. The 37th International Reggae & World Music Awards(IRAWMA) is sponsored by: The Ministry of Culture, Gender, Entertainment and Sport, IRIE FM, Jamaica Pegasus Hotel, VP Records, Onstage TV, Irie Jam 360, International Festival of Life, Jsvfest.com, Trade Works, 25th Century Radio, Down Marie & Wiz- WAVS AM, African Spectrum & Rockers Jamaica.

Koffee, Shaggy, Sean Paul and Popcaan Top Nominees for 37th International Reggae & World Music Awards(IRAWMA) Who will take home the coveted IRAWMA trophy?

Some 150 reggae and world music industry individuals, groups and others received nods in more than 32 categories for the 37th International Reggae & World Music Awards(IRAWMA). At the top of the list is Koffee, Shaggy, Sean Paul and Popcaan with four nods each. Followed by Etana, Damian Marley and Chronixx who each received three nods. Capleton, Morgan Heritage, Tarrus Riley, Busy Signal, Vybz Kartel, Sizzla, Beres Hammond and Machel Montano all received two nominations. Who will take home the coveted IRAWMA trophy? Koffee, one of tonight’s IRAWMA hosts burst onto the scene with her song “Legend”, a tribute to world-renowned athlete Usain Bolt and has continued to take the world by storm with her prolific lyrics and hit songs such as “Burning, Toast”, “Raggamuffin” to name a few. Dancehall star Shaggy teamed up with Rock star Sting on the pair’s 2018 collaboration album 44/876. Shaggy sent Sting a demo of the track “Don’t Make Me Wait,” the duo enjoyed the recording experience so much, they knocked out 20 songs of their album in six weeks. As a result, Shaggy will release his first solo album in six years, Wah Gwaan?! this May. Multi-platinum, Grammy Award winning artist Sean Paul is still hitting firsts after more than two decades in the industry with the release of his first ever EP, Mad Love The Prequel. He collaborated with international English singer Ellie Goulding(“Love Me Like You Do”),

singer Jhene Aiko(“The Worst”), and “Hurtin Me” rapper Stefflon Don, among others. Jamaican artist Popcaan has enjoyed international recognition since his debut LP Where We Come From in 2014. His sophomore studio album, Forever via Brooklyn-based label Mixpak has garnered four IRAWMA nominations including: Bob Marley Award for Entertainer of the Year; Best Song(“Body So Good”); Best Album/CD(“Forever”); and Best Dancehall Artist.

Reggae Sensation Koffee and Recording Artist Tony Rebel to Host the 37th Annual International Reggae & World Music Awards(IRAWMA) The ballroom of the Jamaica Pegasus Hotel. Kingston, Jamaica will come alive with the staging of the 37th Annual International Reggae and World Music Awards (IRAWMA) and “TheReggae50”, in celebration of fifty years of reggae since 1968/69. Topping off the evening of glitz and glamour on the star-studded red carpet are reggae sensation Koffee and recording artist and promoter Tony Rebel will host the 37th staging of Reggae & World Music’s biggest night! Koffee burst onto the scene with her song “Legend”, a tribute to world-renowned athlete Usain Bolt and has continued to take the world by storm with her prolific lyrics and hit songs such as “Burning, Toast”, “Raggamuffin” to name a few. Koffee’s mission is to preserve Jamaica’s roots and culture in music and to empower the youth of her generation through her musical journey across the world. “I want to make a better world for the generation that’s coming up, to promote love and peace, and even though I’m young, I feel that the Creator has blessed me with talent and wisdom to get the job done,” says Koffee. Tony Rebel no stranger to the music world as he’s known for his hit after hit with songs such as “Jah By My Side”, “Fresh Vegetable”, “Jus Friends”, “Sweet Jamaica”, “If Jah is Standing by My Side” and “Teach the Little Children”. In 2001, he wrote, recorded and donated the song “Not all about Money” to the United Nations Volunteers program for inclusion on their website and CD. In 1994 Tony founded his record label, ‘Flames’. That same year, he debuted his reggae festival named “Rebel Salute”. The festival has developed into an annual event through his production company, Flames Productions and is held on his birthday in January. It is one of Jamaica’s biggest music festivals, known for its focus on roots and conscious music. Since 2014, the festival has become a two-day event, held in the Richmond Park Estate in Saint Ann Parish Awards will be given in 32 nominated categories; while 35 special award honors (without votes) will be awarded to reggae foundation members from the music fraternity and other reggae and world music giants who have made extraordinary contributions to the music industry over the decades; this includes Martin’s international Special Salute and TheRegga50 Pioneer Award of Honor. The ballroom of the Jamaica Pegasus Hotel. Kingston, Jamaica will come alive with the staging of the 37th Annual International Reggae and World Music Awards (IRAWMA) and “TheReggae50”, in celebration of fifty years of reggae since 1968/69. Topping off the evening of glitz and glamour on the star-studded red carpet are reggae sensation Koffee and recording artiste and promoter Tony Rebel who will also be hosting the event, among others to be announced later. Koffee burst onto the scene with her song “Legend”, a tribute to worldrenowned athlete Usain Bolt and has continued to take the world by storm with her prolific lyrics and hit songs such as “Burning, Toast”, “Raggamuffin” to name a few. Koffee’s mission is to preserve Jamaica’s roots and culture in music and to empower the youth of her generation through her musical journey across the world. “I want to make a better world for the generation that’s coming up, to promote love and peace, and even though I’m young, I feel that the Creator has blessed me with talent and wisdom to get the job done,” says Koffee. Tony Rebel no stranger to the music world as he’s known for his hit after hit with songs such as “Jah By My Side”, “Fresh Vegetable”, “Jus Friends”, “Sweet Jamaica”, “If Jah is Standing by My Side” and “Teach the Little Children”. In 2001, he wrote, recorded and donated the song “Not all about Money” to the United Nations Volunteers program for inclusion on their website and CD. In 1994 Tony founded his record label, ‘Flames’. That same year, he debuted his reggae festival named “Rebel Salute”. The festival has developed into an annual event through his production company, Flames Productions and is held on his birthday in January. It is one of Jamaica’s biggest music festivals, known for its focus on roots and conscious music. Since 2014, the festival has become a two-day event, held in the Richmond Park Estate in Saint Ann Parish Awards will be given in 32 nominated categories; while 35 special award honors (without votes) will be awarded to reggae foundation members from the music fraternity and other reggae and world music giants who have made extraordinary contributions to the music industry over the decades; this includes Martin’s international Special Salute and TheRegga50 Pioneer Award of Honor.

37th Annual International Reggae & World Music Awards(IRAWMA)and “The Reggae 50”-Fifty Years of Reggae from 1968/69 to Present Saturday, May 11th, 2019 THE JAMAICA PEGASUS HOTEL Kingston, Jamaica WI Red Carpet arrival/VIP Reception begins at 7:00pm Awards Ceremony begins at 8:30pm IRAWMA Hosts: Tony Rebel and Koffee

PROGRAM

THIS PROGRAM IS SUBJECT TO MINOR CHANGES

7:00 PM Red Carpet arrivals of performers, presenters, special honorees, media and VIP ticket holders VIP Reception for nominees, performers, presenters, special honorees, media and VIP ticket holders. Red Carpet Host RE-TV and Reception Host Rohan Gunter(Comedian/IRAWMA Nominee) 7:55 PM Flashback audio/video from previous IRAWMAs 8:00 PM Seating of presenters, performers, special honorees 8:30 PM Showtime/Greetings Introduction of Hosts: Tony Rebel and Koffee Greetings: Mayor of Kingston and St. Andrew Minister of Culture, Gender, Entertainment and Sport, Hon. Olivia “Babsy” Grange Martin’s International & IRAWMA’s President - Ephraim M. Martin Prime Minister, Most Hon. Andrew Holness 8:40 PM Opening Performance 8:50 PM Presentation of Awards 9:00 PM Showtime/Performance

9:10 PM Presentation of Awards

10:50 PM Showtime/Performance

9:15 PM Showtime/Performance

11:00 PM Presentation of Awards

9:25 PM Presentation of Awards

11:10 PM Showtime/Performance

9:30 PM Showtime/Performance

11:20 PM Presentation of Awards

9:40 PM Presentation of Awards

11:25 PM Showtime/Performance

9:45 PM Showtime/ Performance 9:50 PM Presentation of Awards:

11:35 PM Grand Finale All entertainers, presenters, sponsors, staff and other participants on stage as we say… Thank you for your support! Have a prosperous rest of the year 2019 and see you in 2020 for 38th Annual International Reggae & World Music Awards(IRAWMA) ceremony!

10:00 PM Showtime/Performance 10:10 PM Presentation of Awards 10:15 PM Showtime/Performance 10:25 PM Presentation of Awards 10:30 PM Showtime/Performance 10:40 PM Presentation of Awards

IRAWMA Hall of Fame Mutabaruka

Mutabaruka, is a Jamaican Rastafari dub poet, musician, actor, educator, and talk-show host, who developed two of Jamaica’s most popular radio programs, “The Cutting Edge” and “Steppin’ Razor”. His name translates as “one who is always victorious”. His themes include politics, culture, Black liberation, social oppression, discrimination, poverty, racism, sexism, and religion. Muta’s early poems were published in the magazine Swing in 1971, followed by his first collection of poems, Outcry(1973). Backed by his band, Truth, Muta began performing live, releasing “Outcry” as a single in 1977. Muta’s performance at Reggae Sunsplash in 1981 led to his 1983 album release Check It on Chicago blues label Alligator Records. His enormous list of albums, recordings and collaborations followed: Dub Poet’s Dub, Outcry, The Mystery Unfolds, and Any Which Way Freedom, to name a few. In the mid-1990s Muta presented a late night talk show on radio station Irie FM called The Cutting Edge, and quickly became one of Jamaica’s most sought-after and controversial radio personalities. Muta has lectured at Stanford University and taught African American studies at Merritt College in California. In 2016, the government of Jamaica awarded Mutabaruka the Order of Distinction, Commander Class (one of the highest distinctions in the country), in recognition of his cultural contributions.

Tony Rebel

Tony Rebel initially performed as “Papa Tony” and “Tony Ranking” in local talent contests and on sound systems including Sugar Minott’s “Youth Promotion”. His first single “Casino” debuted in 1988 and his career took off when he worked with Donovan Germain’s Penthouse setup in the early 1990s. He had a big hit in 1990 with “Fresh Vegetable”, and established a “singjay” style of delivery. In 1993 he released Vibes of the Times, a predominantly reggae fusion album on Columbia Records. It spawned international singles such as the title track “Vibes of the Times” and “Nazerite Vow”. In 1994 he founded his record label, ‘Flames’. That same year, he held a reggae festival named “Rebel Salute”. The festival developed into an annual event through his production company, Flames Productions and is held on his birthday. It is one of Jamaica’s biggest music festivals, known for its focus on roots and conscious music. Since 2014, the festival has become a two-day event, held in the Richmond Park Estate in Saint Ann Parish. In 2001, Rebel wrote, recorded and donated the song “Not all about Money” to the United Nations Volunteers program for inclusion on the International Year of Volunteers website and CD.

Boris Gardiner Singer, songwriter, bass guitarist Boris Gardiner has a musical career that spans more than 50 years. In 1960 he joined Richard Ace’s band the Rhythm Aces, who recorded “Angella” and “A Thousand Teardrops”. He later joined Kes Chin and The Souvenirs as well as Carlos Malcolm & the Afro Caribs. Gardiner formed his own group, called the Broncos and played with Byron Lee’s Dragonaires. In the late 1960s and 1970s he worked extensively as a session musician and member of the Now Generation, The Upsetters, The Aggrovators, and The Crystallites. As a solo artist, Gardiner had a hit with the song “Elizabethan Reggae” in 1970, from his debut album, Reggae Happening. In 1973, he recorded a version of “Ain’t No Sunshine” in 1973 with Paul Douglas singing lead and him playing bass guitar, for the album Is What’s Happening. More recordings followed in 1986, including “I Wanna Wake Up with You” and “The Meaning of Christmas”. Later, Gardiner signed to RCA Records. In 2002, he released a 22-track anthology, The Very Best of Boris Gardiner. In 2015, his song “Every Nigger Is a Star” was sampled on “Wesley’s Theory”, the opening track of Kendrick Lamar’s To Pimp a Butterfly. The song also opens the 2016 film “Moonlight”.

A M AW peror

Bob Marley

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Robert Nesta Marley, OM is considered one of the pioneers of reggae, his musical career has been marked by blending elements of reggae, ska, and rocksteady, as well as forging a smooth and distinctive vocal and songwriting style. Marley’s contributions to music increased the visibility of Jamaican music worldwide, and made him a global figure in popular culture. Marley began his professional musical career in 1963, after forming Bob Marley & The Wailers. The group released their debut album The Wailing Wailers in 1965, The Wailers subsequently went on to release eleven additional studio albums. In 1974, Bob Marley released his debut studio album, Natty Dread (1974), followed by Rastaman Vibration (1976) and Exodus (1977). Since his passing on May 11, 1981, Bob Marley’s catalog of music continues to influence music and culture 30 years after his death. His greatest hits album, Legend, released in 1984, became the best-selling reggae album of all-time. Marley also ranks as one of the best-selling music artists, with estimated sales of more than 75 million records worldwide. Bob Marley was posthumously honored by Jamaica soon after his death, as he was designated the Order of Merit award. He was posthumously inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1994; in 1999, his album “Exodus” was named Album of the Century by Time Magazine and his song “One Love” was designated Song of the Millennium by the BBC. Bob Marley’s music was never recognized with a Grammy nomination but in 2001 he was bestowed The Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award. In 2001 Bob Marley was accorded the 2171st star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. In 2006 an eight block stretch of Brooklyn’s Church Avenue, was renamed Bob Marley Boulevard.

A M AW edom

Spe

re F l cia

H r e t gh

Rev. Jessie L. Jackson, Sr r no The Reverend Jesse Louis Jackson, Sr., founder and president of the Rainbow PUSH Coalition, is one of America’s foremost civil rights, religious and political figures. Over the past forty years, he has played a pivotal role in virtually every movement for empowerment, peace, civil rights, gender equality, and economic and social justice. In 2000, President Bill Clinton awarded Reverend Jackson the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the nation’s highest civilian honor. Reverend Jackson has been called the “Conscience of the Nation” and “the Great Unifier,” challenging America to be inclusive and to establish just and humane priorities for the benefit of all. He is known for bringing people together on common ground across lines of race, culture, class, gender and belief. A renowned orator and activist, Reverend Jackson has received numerous honors for his work in human and civil rights and nonviolent social change. In 1991, the U.S. Post Office put his likeness on a pictorial postal cancellation, only the second living person to receive such an honor. He has been on the Gallup List of the Ten Most Respected Americans for more than a dozen years. He has received the prestigious NAACP Spingarn Award in addition to honors from hundreds of grassroots, civic and community organizations from coast to coast.

Martin’s International/IRAWMA Reggae/ Jamaica Person of the Year

Hon. Olivia ‘Babsy’ Grange MP,CD IRAWMA Entrepreneur Award The Hon. Olivia ‘Babsy’ Grange MP, CD, has been the Member Parliament for St. Catherine Central since 1997. She was appointed Minister of Information, Youth, Sports & Culture, with responsibility for Women and Gender Affairs, Entertainment, Community Development and Special Projects in 2007. She also served as Minister of State in the Office of the Prime Minister 1985-1989; Government Senator and Parliamentary Secretary for Information and Culture 1983-1985. In 2015, Ms. Grange was awarded the Order of Distinction, in the rank of Commander (CD), for her contribution to the Jamaican Music Industry, Cultural Development and Public Service. In June 2009, she had the distinction of being appointed the Caribbean Community’s (CARICOM) first Champion for Culture. She is an artist, director, event planner and an ardent supporter and promoter of Jamaica’s creative and cultural industries. She is also a pioneer contributor to the development of the Reggae and Dancehall Music Industry in Jamaica, Canada and the United States. As a founding member and Director of the Jamaica Association of Composers, Authors and Publishers (JACAP), Ms. Grange has been instrumental in introducing policy initiatives in Jamaica to support the development of the cultural industries and advance “brand Jamaica” in the international market. She also assisted in developing the Jamaican Copyright Legislation. She co-founded Contrast, Canada’s first black community newspaper and was the Chief Executive Officer of Specs Limited and Spec-Shang Music. She also served as Executive Director, Jamaica Cultural Development Commission (JCDC); Arts Officer, Institute of Jamaica; Cultural Director, West Kingston Community Cultural Development Program; and Public Relations Officer, West Kingston Trust; Minister Grange has a long career as a community activist and politician committed to the promotion of youth and women’s affairs with a particular focus on job creation and improved health care.

Reggae Lovers Rock Legend

Award Beres Hammond

songwriter. Beres Hammond remains cool, though he knows that he’s one of a handful of people responsible for maintaining a mighty legacy of soulful reggae music—a select group of artists like Toots and Gregory, like Dennis and Bob. Over the course of a 30-year career, Beres has poured his smoky-sweet voice—an instrument of subtlety and power reminiscent of an Otis Redding or a Teddy Pendergrass—over every kind of riddim track, from the funked-up reggae jams of the ’70s fusion band Zap Pow to the lush instrumentation of his 1976 album Soul Reggae to the spare digital beat of his 1985 dancehall breakthrough “What One Dance Can Do.” In 1990, his album A Love Affair for Donovan Germaine’s Penthouse label raised his popularity to new heights. Beres started building his home studio in the early ’90s, his spontaneous method of composing, and his unwillingness to compromise, made a home studio the natural choice. Although the trend of self-production as a whole has, at times, diluted the quality of music coming from isolated individuals poking at computer keyboards, Beres Hammond’s little music room attracts a steady stream of Jamaica’s most talented musicians.

Josef Bogdanovich

Los Angeles born and raised Josef Bogdanovich began visiting Jamaica in the early 1990s before settling in Kingston, in 1999. Bogdanovich, who worked as a film screenwriter, producer and director before turning to music, learned the rigors of the entertainment business from his older brother, Robert, a co-founder of one of the largest concert promotion companies of the 1970s. Bogdanovich started Acid Jazz record label in 1992; a year later he founded Downsound Records. By 1995, Bogdanovich had established a Downsound office in Kingston and released music from an eclectic array of reggae and dancehall artists. The entrepreneur is a KLE Group shareholder, which operates Usain Bolt’s Tracks & Records, the popular sports bar/restaurant co-owned by the celebrated Olympian. In 2016, he acquired Hardware & Lumber, the island’s largest retail hardware chain. In 2017, Bogdanovich established “Caribbean Love Now” to aid Caribbean islands ravaged by Hurricanes Irma and Maria. Bogdanovich also took over the reins of Reggae Sumfest in 2016. He introduced HD live streaming, a 360 virtual reality access app and expanded the now 26-year-old festival to eight days. He also initiated the Sumfest Inspire Awards, a reggae business symposium and an international sound system clash. Downsound Entertainment has also pioneered a reciprocal promotion strategy between Sumfest and Damian Marley’s Welcome to Jamrock Reggae Cruise.

IRAWMA Reggae Culture Legend Award

Capleton

Along with Buju Banton and Sizzla, Capleton spearheaded dancehall’s return to reggae tradition, tackling Rastafarian spiritual themes and using classic roots reggae as a musical foundation. In the early years, Capleton gained notoriety for his first single, “Bumbo Red,” which was banned from Jamaican radio for its sexually explicit lyrics. By 1992, a distinct cultural consciousness was becoming apparent in Capleton’s work, starting with the landmark single “Alms House.” His path of “righteousness through music” lead to the album Prophecy(1995) on Def Jam Records. Hip-hop remixes of “Tour” and “Wings in the Morning” (with Method Man) made Capleton a significant heavy hitter in the Rap/Hip Hop world. The follow-up album, I Testament fused R&B accessibility with Rastafarian militancy. Some say that Capleton is at the height of his powers. Dubbed “The Prophet,” his career spans more than 20 years. Capleton also hosts his annual “A St Mary Mi Come From” event which raises funds for local charities, hospitals and schools.

IRAWMA Dancehall Icon Award

Bounty Killer

Bounty Killer was one of the most aggressive dancehall stars of the ’90s, a street-tough rude boy with an unrepentant flair for gun talk. Making his name in Jamaica during the early ’90s, with hit singles, like “Copper Shot,” “Spy Fi Die,” “Guns Out,” “New Gun,” “Kill Fe Fun,” “Gunshot Fi Informer,” and “Lodge.” Many of them appeared on Bounty Killer’s debut album, Jamaica’s Most Wanted, which was released in 1993. More albums soon followed including: Guns Out, Face to Face, Down in the Ghetto, No Argument, No Argument, My Xperience, Ghetto Gramma, Next Millennium, 5th Element, Ghetto Dictionary– The Art of War and Nah No Mercy – The Warlord Scrolls. Bounty Killer was working extensively in hip-hop crossover territory by the end of the decade, but retained his hard edge no matter what the musical context. He is the founder of a dancehall collective known as The Alliance with deejay Mavado and Vybz Kartel.

Martin’s International/IRAWMA Award of Honor

Clifton “Specialist” Dillon

Clifton “Specialist” Dillon, the CEO of Oufah, has an unrivalled track record when it comes to turning Jamaican artists into award winning international acts. In the early nineties he won back-to-back Grammy Awards with Shabba Ranks. For the next five years his productions were ever-present on the US Billboard charts – not only hits by Shabba, but also Mad Cobra (Flex), Lady Patra and Richie Stephens, all of whom belonged to his management stable and were subsequently signed to major labels. Specialist grew up around reggae sound-systems, and worked with the likes of King Tubby and Bobby Digital before making records of his own. He knew that dancehall wasn’t just about music – instead it was a lifestyle with its own language, fashion, dance moves and attitude. By promoting his artists’ Caribbean roots rather than diluting them, Specialist took the dancehall genre to another level after masterminding collaborations with Queen Latifah, KRS-One, Chubb Rock, Johnny Gill, Chuck Berry and film star Eddie Murphy. Further success came with Ky-mani Marley – the son of reggae legend Bob Marley. His “Dear Dad” single taken from The Journey album, heralded his breakthrough in 2000. Ky-mani went on to sign for major labels, record Grammy nominated albums and star in several films, including “Shottas” and “One Love”, co-starring Cherine Anderson.

Donald Kinsey

Best known as a member of The Wailers, reggae legend Bob Marley’s band, Donald Kinsey is an Indianaborn guitarist with Blues roots. Kinsey is one of three sons of the late Chicago blues performer, Big Daddy Kinsey. By the time he was 13, he was an accomplished guitarist performing with his dad. In 1971 at the age of 18, Kinsey played rhythm guitar for Albert King and performed with legends like Freddie King and Professor Longhair. Previously he toured and recorded with Albert King, Peter Tosh, Bob Marley and the Wailers and Roy Buchanan. In 1984, Kinsey formed the funky blues rock band The Kinsey Report with his brothers Ralph and Kenneth, as well as family friend Ron Prince. They still perform live today around the country and often can be found at Chicago’s Kingston Mines or Buddy Guy’s Legends.

Top One Frisson

Music Artist, Top-One Frisson, former member of the groups VELSY Kipiala and Les Jeunes Premiers began her solo career in 2008. His first album, Kimona Meso(2008), earned him several trophies: Best Soukous Entertainer at International Reggae & World Music Awards(IRAWMA); Best International Artist at Afro Entertainment Awards(USA) and the OBE TV Award in Great Brittan. His second album, Kifula MPaka (Never Give Up), a coproduction between Studio International, Aphrodisiac Production and PMC Production was released in 2014. That same year he was nominated for “Artist of the Year”, “Song of the Year” and “Video of the Year” at the African NAFCA Awards. His third album, Vingu (The Force), was recently released, with the breakout single, “Never Tired”.

VP Records

VP Records, based in Jamaica, Queens NY, is a major pioneering force in the reggae music industry. Home to global superstars such as Sean Paul, Gyptian, Elephant Man, Beres Hammond, Tanya Stephens, Lady Saw, I-Wayne, Morgan Heritage and others. Formed in 1993, VP is the only record label that represents the full spectrum of Caribbean music from roots & culture to soca and dancehall. VP Records officially became the genre’s powerhouse with the acquisition of its long-time contender Greensleeves Records & Publishing in 2008. With VP and Greensleeves combined catalog, Greensleeves Publishing became the leading source for reggae music publishing worldwide. Since its acquisition, VP Records has also expanded the label’s operations with a Live Events and Tour Booking division, new imprints including 17 North Parade, Dub Rockers and VPAL. It all began over 50 years ago with reggae pioneers, the late Vincent Chin and his wife Patricia (their initials leading to the name “VP”) in Kingston, Jamaica. Chin’s business maintaining jukeboxes around the island, led to him recognizing the opportunity to sell the old records that would otherwise be discarded for new ones. In 1958, the couple opened a retail store in downtown Kingston and Studio 17. In the mid1970s, the Chins moved to New York City, setting up a record store in Brooklyn called VP Records. In 1979, they relocated the store to Jamaica, Queens where the couple became major producers and wholesale distributors of reggae across North America from Jamaica and other islands of the Caribbean. VP Records was awarded Billboard’s “Best Independent Label” and received the award for “Best Reggae Imprint Label”. VP was nominated for Best Independent Reggae Label at Billboard’s Hip-Hop and R&B awards.

4. Best Song* “One Way” - Busy Signal * “Underwater”-Vybz Kartel * “My Man” - Etana * “Kontra Band” – Kabaka Pyramid, featuring Damian Marley * “Body So Good” - PopCaan 5. Best Album/CD – Sponsored by Ministry of Culture, Gender, Entertainment and Sports * “Reggae Forever” -Etana * “Forever” -Popcaan * “A Matter of Time” -Protoje * “44/876” -Sting and Shaggy * ”Rebellion Rises” – Ziggy Marley 6. Best Crossover Song - Sponsored by TVJ /RE-TV

2019 NOMINEES

* “Mia” – Bad Bunny, featuring Drake *“Africa x Jamaica” – Morgan Heritage, featuring Diamond Platinum and Stonebwoy *“Mad Love”- Sean Paul and David Guetta, ft. Becky G * “Don’t Make Me Wait” - Shaggy x Sting – * “Tip On It” – Sean Paul and Major Lazer 7. Best Gospel Song- Sponsored by Dawn Marie & the Wiz- WAVS RadioFlorida * “Bawl Out [Jesus Name]” - Chozenn * “God Answers Prayers” - Da Flame * “You Are God” - -George Nooks * “Oh Lord We Need You” - Minister Marion Hall * ”Glory to God”- Wayne Marshall, Featuring Tessanne Chin and Ryan Mark 8. Best Male Dancehall Artist -

1. Bob Marley Award for Entertainer of the Year * Busy Signal * Chronixx * Damian Marley * Popcaan * Shaggy 2. Best Male Vocalist * Chronixx * Romain Virgo * Tarrus Riley * Protoje * Beres Hammond 3. Best Female Vocalist- Sponsored by IRIE FM Radio * Etana * Estelle * Jah9 * Koffee * Queen Ifrica

* Aidonia * Govana * Masicka * Popcaan * Vybz Kartel 9. Best Female Dancehall Artist – Sponsored by OnStage TV- Winford Williams * D’Angel * Dovey Magnum * Jada Kingdom * Spice * Shenseea 10. Best New Entertainer – Sponsored by Tradeworks- Jamaica * Dalton Harris * Hood Celebrity * Jada Kingdom * Koffee * Rygin King 11. Best Calypso/Soca Entertainer * Farmer Nappy * Kes * Machel Montano * Skinny Fabulous * Patrice Roberts

12. Best Latin/Reggaeton Entertainer * Bad Bunny – Puerto Rico * J. Balvin – Columbian * Ozuna – Puero Rican * Nicky Jam - Puerto Rican * Romeo Santos – Dominican 13. Best Afrobeat Entertainer – Sponsored by African Spectrum Newspaper * Akothee – Kenya * Davido- Nigeria * Diamond Platnumz – Tanzania * Flavor – Nigeria * Shatta Wale – Ghana * Stonebwoy-Ghana 14. Best Soukous Entertainer *Akothee – Kenya *AwiloLongomba - Congo * FallyIpupa - Congo * Ferre Gola – Congo * Nkuma Katalay - NY * Top-One Frissen – France 15. Best R&B/Hip Hop Collaborated Song * “I Like It” - Cardi B ft. Bad Bunny, J. Balvin * “Still King” – EMINEM, ft. Busta Rhymes * “Dimelo” – Rak’Su, Wyclef Jean and Naught Boy * ”Senseless” - Stefflon Don ft. Tory Lanez * “Touchdown” – Stylo G and Fanatix, featuring Nicki Minaj and Vybz Karlel 16. Best Reggae Rock Entertainer

19. Mutabaruka Award for Best Poet/Spoken Word Entertainer * Cherry Natural * DYCR * Richie Innocent * Malachi Smith * Yasus Afari 20. Most Cultural/Educational Entertainer – Sponsored by Josepheus Harris Prod. * Capleton * Chronixx * LutanFyah * Sizzla * Tarrus Riley 21. Most Outstanding Show Band/Group- Sponsored by Irie Jam 360 * Capleton & the Prophecy Band * Inner Circle * Morgan Heritage * Raging Fyah * New Kingston Band 22. Most Consistent Entertainer – Sponsored by Jamaica Pegasus Hotel * Calypso Rose * Freddie McGregor * Marcia Griffiths * Maxi Priest * Toots Hibbert 23. Most Entertainer

27. Most Outstanding Dance Group * Black Eagle – JA * 4 Bent - Ghana * Optimistic Dancers - JA * Pyrotech - USA * Sopreme Blazzaz – JA 28. Best Haitian Entertainer * DJakout #1 * Kai * Klass * Roody Roodboy * NuLook

* Dalton Harris * Fancy Gadam– Ghana * Kabaka Pyramid * Koffee * Motto - St. Lucia

* Champion- Common Kings * Love me - Fia * Celebrate- Rebelution * Don’t Make Me WaitShaggy and Sting * Too Late-Slightly Stoopid

24. Best InstrumentalistSponsored by 25th Century Radio

17. Best Teen Entertainer (13 – 19 yrs.)

* Dean Fraser * Joseph Sax – Uganda * Sly and Robbie

* Josef Bogdanovich

* Beenie Man * Beres Hammond * Calypso Rose * Machel Mantano * Sizzla

* Beres Hammond

30. Record Producer of the Year - Sponsored – Balloons by JakiJade * French 4Real * Ghetto Youths Intl * Notnice * Russian * TJ Records

* Chris Daley * Glen Campbell * Ity and Fancy Cat * Majah Hype * Rohan Gunter 32. Marcus Garvey Humanitarian Award * Bounty Killer * GT Taylor Christmas Extravaganza * Josef Bogdanovich * Shaggy * VP Records

40. Martin’s International/ IRAWMA Award of Honor * Clifton “Specialist” Dillion * Donald Kinsey * VP Records Martin’s International Special Salute: The Reggae 50– Pioneer Award of Honor * Alpha Boys Band * Bunny Wailer * Chris Blackwell * Copeland Forbes * Freddy McGregor * Johnny Nash * Judy Mowatt * Lee “Scratch” Perry * Marcia Griffiths * The Heptones * Toots Hibbert * U-Roy * Ibo Cooper * Tommy “Yes Indeed” Cowan * Rita Marley * Skatalites * Sly and Robbie

SPECIAL HONOREES:

25. Best Sound System/DJ

18. Best Music Video

34. Martin’s International/ 26. Concert of the Year- IRAWMA Reggae/Jamaica Jerk, Seafood & Vegan Fest Person of the Year (JSVFest) * Hon. Olivia “Babsy” Grange * Rebel Salute- Jamaica 35. Special Freedom Fighter * Reggae Sumfest-Jamaica Honor * Rototom Sunsplash- Spain * Rev. Jesse Louis Jackson, Sr. * Sierra Nevada World Music Festival-California 36. Special Emperor of * Summerjam-Germany Reggae and World Music Honor * Robert “Nesta Marley” – O.M.(Posthumously)

* “Medication” [Remix] Damian “Jr. Gong” Marley - (Stephen “Ragga” Marley, Wiz Khalifa & Ty Dolla * “Africa x Jamaica,”- Morgan Heritage, Platnumz and Stonebwoy * “Mad Love” - Sean Paul and David Guetta, ft. Becky G * ”Tip Pon It” - Sean Paul & Major Lazer * “Gringo” - Shatta Wale * “My Own -Samini

38. Special: IRAWMA Entrepreneur Award

39. Special: IRAWMA Reggae Lovers Rock Legend Award

* Koffee * NesaKhonesa * Ngoozi * Vybz t (Trevor Tawonevi ) – Zimbabwe * Wayne J.

* Bass Odyssey * Mighty Crown * Pink Panther * Stone Love * Tony Matterhorn

* Balford Henry * Barry G. (Barry Gordon) * Ka’bu Ma’at * Dennis Howard * Norma Brown * Winford Williams

29. Best Caribbean Entertainer- Sponsored by VP Records

31. Comedian of the Year

Promising

37. Special Award for Exceptional Media Cntribution to Reggae over the Years

33. Inductee (s) IRAWMA Hall of Fame/Lifetime Achievement Award * Mutabaruka * Boris Gardner * Tony Rebel

27 27

Emkay Sports & Trophies

Congratulates the 37th International Reggae & World Music Awards

16-24 Oxford Terrace Kingston, Jamaica www.emkaysportsja.com +1 876-929-1133

Rita Marley Tommy Cowan

Freddie McGregor

Bunny Wailer

Chris Blackwell

Toots Hibbert

The Reggae 50: Celebrating 50 Years of Reggae Music On the return of the 37th Annual International Reggae and World Music Awards (IRAWMA) on May 11 at the Jamaica Pegasus Hotel in recognition of TheReggae50, celebrating 50 years of reggae music, 20 of our outstanding reggae foundation members will receive the Martin’s International Special Salute: TheRegge50 Pioneer Award of Honor. On this milestone event, Founder and President and CEO of IRAWMA Ephraim Martin stated “it was just fitting to salute and honor some of reggae’s foundation members, who are still making a difference in the world of reggae from 1968 to present. It the reason two years ago we established “TheReggae50”, with Kingston, Jamaica as the venue. The foundation members who are being honored are: the Alpha Boys Band, Founder of Island Records Chris Blackwell, Tour Manager and Booking Agent Copeland Forbes, recording artists, Freddie McGregor, Johnny Nash, Judy Mowatt, Bunny Wailer, Lee ‘Scratch’ Perry, Marcia Griffiths, The Heptones, Toots Hibbert, U-Roy, Rita Marley, Bob Andy, Inner Circle, Third World and the Skatalites. Also making the list is musician and former Third World member Ibo Cooper, music rhythm section and production duo Sky & Robbie and producer/ singer Tommy ‘Yes Indeed’ Cowan.

Sly & Robbie

The Skatalites

Johnny Nash

Alpha Boys School

Judy Mowatt

Lee Scratch Perry

Marcia Griffiths

Copeland Forbes

TheThe Reggae 50:50: Celebrating 50 Years of Reggae Celebrating 50 Years of Reggae Reggae Music Music Rita Marley

Award winning singer, musician, philanthropist and reggae icon Mrs. Rita Marley OD, has displayed a deep love of music since childhood. This passion led her to form The Soulettes, which led to the eventual meeting of local Trench Town musicians Robert Marley, Peter Tosh and Bunny Livingston – known as the Wailers. Soon after this fateful meeting, the talented young Rita became an integral part of the Wailers musical development, as well as a constant presence and influence in her husband, Bob Marley’s, life and legacy; including as a member of the I-Threes alongside Marcia Griffiths and Judy Mowatt. Simultaneously, she forged an extraordinary career as a solo artist. Her musical career has produced incredible albums including Who Feels It Knows It, Harambe, the 1992 Grammy-nominated album, We Must Carry On and Spectacle for Tribuffalos, as well as the classic reggae album Beginning, with the I-Threes. Her sizzling 1982 hit “One Draw”, sold over two million copies and made history as the first reggae single to top the Billboard Dance Charts. In May 2019, she will release The Best of Rita Marley “Lioness of Reggae,” which features her most well-known material on limited edition vinyl. She continues her legacy today with the Rita Marley Foundation – eradicating poverty and hunger, while empowering communities, in Africa, Jamaica and beyond.

Bunny Wailer

As a founding member of the Wailers, Bunny Wailer OM, has become a respected elder statesmen of the Jamaican music scene. His vocal and composing contributions to the Wailers has helped to keep the group’s memory alive. The Wailers(Bob Marley, Peter Tosh, Bunny Wailer) were responsible for such groundbreaking songs as, “Simmer Down”, “Trenchtown Rock”, “Nice Time”, “Stir It Up”, “Get Up Stand Up”, and countless others. The Wailers broke up by 1974, each going on to pursue solo careers. Beyond the Wailers’ legacy, and his own solo career, Wailer has made a significant mark beyond the music scene. A three-time Grammy award winner, Wailer is considered one of the longtime standardbearers of reggae music. According to Bob Marley’s official website. Bunny Wailer and Beverley Kelso are the only surviving members of the original Wailers. In 2012, Bunny Wailer received Jamaica’s fifth highest honor, the Order of Jamaica. In 2016, he played a month-long ‘Blackheart Man’ tour to celebrate the 40th anniversary of his 1976 album. In 2017 he was awarded the Order of Merit by the Jamaican government, the nation’s fourth-highest honor.

Freddie McGregor

Internationally acclaimed, Grammy-nominated singer, Freddie McGregor, O.D., has not only made significant contributions to Reggae music since inception, but, has also helped to shape it with his conscious lyrics and Philly-Soul style for over 50 years. Equally adept as a romantic crooner or as an emissary of strong cultural messaging, his undeniable vocal ability boasts hits like “Push Come to Shove,” “Africa Here I Come,” “I Was Born A Winner,” “Guantanamera,” his signature “Big Ship,” “Lock Dem’ Down” and “Bangarang” (both chart topping hits from album “Comin’ in Tough”) and American soul classics like, “Just Don’t Want to Be Lonely” (by Main Ingredient) and “Can I Change My Mind”(by Tyrone Davis). Most recently, Freddie celebrated the release of the single and album both titled “True to My Roots.”

Copeland Forbes

Copeland Forbes journey through the music industry has evolved to him becoming the most experienced and esteemed tour manager, artist manager and Reggae historian over the past 55 years. He began his musical career in 1962 with the Harmony Cats, a few years later he showcased his dancing skills with the Coasters, ultimately leading him to act in several films. He has represented many of the top reggae acts in the genre including; The Wailers, The Mighty Diamonds, Peter Tosh, Jimmy Cliff, Black Uhuru, Sly and Robbie, Third World, Dennis Brown, U-Roy, Marcia Griffiths, among many, many others. Forbes has been the recipient of over 100 international awards since entering the music fraternity. In 2017, he was awarded a National Honor OD, for outstanding contribution in the development of Jamaican music. Forbes continues to be the driving force behind the staging of some of the most historical events in Jamaica’s musical history. More greatness of this living legend is yet to come. Forbes plans to release his long overdue autobiography titled “Reggae My Life Is.”

The Reggae 50: Celebrating 50 Years of Reggae Music Chris Blackwell

Chris Blackwell founded Island Records in 1959. By 1962, the record producer had released 26 singles and two albums on Island. In 1964, he produced Millie Small’s cover of a 1956 Barbie Gaye song “My Boy Lollypop” which sold over six million records worldwide. It launched Island Records into mainstream popular music, and is acknowledged as the first international Ska hit. Blackwell went on to forge the careers of Bob Marley, Grace Jones and U2 amongst many other diverse high-profile acts. He has also produced Marley’s Catch A Fire and Uprising. Island became one of the most successful independent labels of the 1960s, 1970s, and 1980s. Island Records was also the first distribution home for Trojan Records, Chrysalis Records, Bronze Records, Stiff Records and Virgin Records. For Toots and the Maytals, the group that introduced the term “reggae” in song with their single “Do the Reggay” (1968), Blackwell was instrumental introducing them to an international audience. He also formed Mango Records, which featured Burning Spear, Black Uhuru, Third World, Salif Keita, Baaba Maal, Angélique Kidjo, King Sunny Adé and many others. Blackwell sold his stake in Island in 1989, eventually resigning from the company in 1997.

U Roy

Music pioneer Daddy U Roy OD, ruled the charts in the 70s with hit singles, “Penny For Your Song’”(with Derrick Harriott),” “Stop that Train,” “Dread in a Babylon,” “Wake The Town,” “Rule The Nation” and “Wear You To The Ball”(with John Holt). Born Ewart Beckford, he earned his stage name when a young family member found it difficult to pronounce his first name. Known as “The Originator”, U Roy started his professional career as a DJ/Toaster in 1961 on Dickie Wong’s sound system. Roy is a major superstar in Europe and Africa where he performs regularly. A few years ago he had a hit stateside with singer Richie Stephens called ‘Real Reggae Music’ and ‘Ebony Eyes’ featuring Winsome Benjamin. A follow up single ‘Nah Complain’ with entertainer Kafinal topped reggae charts in Canada and New York. In 2007 Beckford was awarded the Order of Distinction by the Jamaican government for his contribution to music. In 2017, he recorded ‘Pumps & Pride’ with singer Tarrus Riley that garnered international attention. His biggest hit is still his collaborative song ‘Wear You to the Ball’ that was released with John Holt in the early 70s. It reached #1 on the Jamaican chart and stayed there for 12 weeks. Also in 2017 U Roy performed at “Groovin in the Park” at Roy Wilkins Park with other musical legends Freddie McGregor, Ken Boothe and Leroy Sibbles. It was U Roy’s first outdoor concert performance in New York City in more than 25 years.

Marcia Griffiths

Marcia Griffiths OD, dubbed the “Queen of Reggae,” is a longstanding vocalist for more than 40 years. Griffiths began her solo singing career with the 1967 hit “Feel Like Jumping”, followed by the singles “Melody Life” and “Truly”. Following her debut full-length, Marcia Griffiths at Studio One, the singer collaborated with Bob Andy of the Paragons on the hit Nina Simone cover “Young, Gifted and Black” in 1970. Griffiths issued her solo sophomore album Sweet Bitter Love in 1974. The same year Bob Marley invited Griffiths to be one of his backing singers known as the I-Threes, alongside Rita Marley and Judy Mowatt. Marcia Griffiths made her debut with the group on the album Natty Dread and became a crucial presence in the Wailers’ stage and recording line-up until Marley’s death in 1981. The I-Threes released the albums Beginning(1983) and Songs of Bob Marley(1995). Griffiths continued her solo career with the albums Naturally(1978) and Steppin(1979). She earned commercial success with the 1982 single “Electric Boogie”, the single led to the “Electric Slide,” line dance--a staple at wedding and get-togethers, and remains the highest selling single by any female reggae singer. In 2002, Marcia received the Prime Minister’s Award of Excellence. She established the Marcia Griffiths Foundation to aid women, children and the elderly, and fund a music scholarship to the Edna Manley College. Griffiths’ international success, cement the singer as a staple and pioneer of the reggae genre.

Inner Circle

When looking at Inner Circle and their 20 year plus history in the reggae field there is much more than what meets the eye. This Jamaican bred, Grammy award winning quintet’s long string of successes stretch back to the mid-70′s. Tragically, Jacob Miller, their lead vocalist was killed in a car accident in 1980. Devastated, the rest of the band broke up. Several members moved to Miami and opened Circle House recording studio. Inner Circle achieved new levels of success in the 1990s. The title track of their album “Bad Boys” sold approximately seven million copies worldwide when the title track became the theme song for the reality show “Cops”(Fox) and was used for the sequel of the movie “Bad Boys II.” Circle House Studios remains one of Miami’s most prominent recording studios and was home of the 2014 worldwide smash hit “Happy,” by Pharell Williams. Inner Circle recently collaborations include a remix of Wiz Khalifa and Snoop Dog’s “Young Wild and Free,” featuring Bizerk, and I-Octane; and Chronixx sang the lyrics to Tenement Yard with Miller’s distinctive vocals from the original track in the background. They are also releasing new projects with Nengo and Flo Rida in a song called “Fall in Love.” Inner Circle also recently did a “One Love” remix with Pitbull, and Peter Morgan.

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The Reggae 50: Celebrating 50 Years of Reggae Music

Judy Mowatt

Judy Mowatt OD is one of the most influential female vocalists in reggae music and described as ““Jamaica’s Queen of Soul”. In addition to recording and touring with Bob Marley as one of the I-Threes from 1974 until Bob’s passing, she has put out at least nine solid solo albums. Her Black Woman LP (1980) is considered by many critics to be the greatest reggae LP ever recorded by a female artist. It was also the first reggae LP to be produced by a woman. Mowatt also founded own label, Ashandan. She joined The Gaylettes (aka the Gaytones) in 1967. She them embarked on a solo career where she recorded under the name Julie-Ann, Julien and Jean. In 1973 she joined Rita Marley and Marcia Griffiths as the I Threes, backing vocalists for Bob Marley & The Wailers. She became the first female singer nominated for a Grammy in the category of reggae music when her Working Wonders LP was nominated in 1985. Mowatt awarded Order of Distinction (Office Class), for contributions to Jamaican music in 1999. Judy Mowatt is a very spiritual woman who has continued to grow and evolve on her spiritual journey over the years.

Tommy Cowan

Tommy Cowan CD, is a performer, producer, promoter and master of ceremonies. He initially worked in reggae but later concentrated on gospel and has been involved in the music business since the 1960s. In 1966 he formed a group called the Merricoles(their name changed to the Jamaicans). Following the group’s demise, Cowan joined Dynamic studio as resident engineer and later went into record production-working with Jacob Miller and Inner Circle, Junior Tucker, among others. Cowan formed the Top Ranking label and successfully managed Inner Circle, balancing their commercial career alongside the roots market. By the late 70s, Cowan had established a reputation for wooing the crowds as an MC, introducing performers at the Reggae Sunsplash Festivals and the legendary One Love Peace Concert. In 1980 he was invited to accompany Bob Marley on his tour of Zimbabwe. When he returned to Jamaica, Cowan concentrated on expanding his Talent Corporation. One of the artists affiliated to this company was his second wife Carlene Davis, who initially recorded reggae ballads. By the mid-90s his roster of performers included John Holt, Toots Hibbert, General Degree, Scotty and Jack Radics. After many years as a devout Rastafarian Tommy returned to the Christian faith in 1996 and established Glory Music. The ordained Gospel minister and justice of the peace has received numerous musical accolades--he was awarded the Order of Distinction (Commander Class) by the Jamaican Government in 2007.

The Skatalites

Ibo Cooper

Ibo Cooper is one of the founding members of the reggae band Third World, whose albums include 96° In The Shade (Island Records, 1977), Journey to Addis (Island Records, 1978), Rock The World (CBS, 1981), You’ve Got the Power (CBS, 1982), Sense of Purpose (CBS, 1985) and Serious Business (CBS, 1989). Among the band’s hit singles are “Forbidden Love,” “Reggae Ambassador,” “Now That We Found Love,” “Jah Glory,” “Talk To Me,” “Irie Ites” and “Cool Meditation.” Before forming Third World he was a member of another influential reggae band, Inner Circle. His list of musical collaborators includes Stevie Wonder, Bob Marley and Philly Soul legends Gamble & Huff. Ibo is currently the Head of the Popular Music Studies department at the Edna Manley College of the Visual and Performing Arts in Kingston, Jamaica.

Formed in 1964 in Kingston, Jamaica, The Skatalites is the premier “Ska” band. They were the top musicians on the island at the time, having come together after playing in different bands and on various recording sessions. The band became legendary, backing all the developing artists of the day: Toots and The Maytals, Prince Buster and The Wailing Wailers. These groups were all recording on the new beat called “Ska”, an infectious rhythm that was catching on like wildfire. Eventually, the beat slowed down into rocksteady, and then reggae. The Skatalites reformed in 1983 after an almost 20 year hiatus and began touring as a unit in 1989. Even after 50 years and various lineup changes as members, the band continues to perform and record new music. Forever indebted to the inspiration and talent of Roland Alphonso, Lloyd Brevett, Don Drummond, Jerome “Jah Jerry” Haynes, Lloyd Knibb, Tommy McCook, Donat “Jackie” Mittoo, John “Dizzy Johnny “Moore, and Lester Sterling, collectively known as The Skatalites. Featuring original alto sax man Lester “Ska” Sterling and vocalist Doreen Shaffer, along with the current lineup of outstanding musicians they have chosen to accompany them, the band proudly presents live the music of Jamaican Ska. Since reforming after an almost 20 year hiatus in 1983, and beginning regular touring as a unit in 1989, they have not stopped thrilling audiences in every corner of the globe. Even after 48 years, and various lineup changes as members leave one stage for another, the band continues to perform and record new music in the inimitable Jamaican style, like only they can. The road has been long and hard, and sadly, seen most of the original members pass on. Often asked “When will you stop?” and “How do you keep doing it after all these years?”, the answer is simple: Never. It’s the love of the music and the way our fans respond that keep us going forward!

IRAWMA Special Award for Exceptional Media Contribution to Reggae Over the Years

Barry G

After 40 years in radio broadcasting, Barry Gordon (Barry G) is still ahead in afternoon radio in Jamaica. As soon as Mello FM (a Montego Bay-based radio station) went island-wide in 2011, the news spread that Barry G was back. Dials were soon tuned to 88.5 as his legions of followers savored the good news. It all started in 1975 when Barry G landed at the now defunct JBC (Jamaica Broadcasting Corporation). He switched to RJR in 1987. JBC lured him back in 1989, he stayed until 2001 before his sojourn to Power 106 FM in 2001. He later moved to Hot 102 (then in Montego Bay). In 2007 while on a flight to Florida, he suffered a stroke which sidelined him until 2010 when he joined the team at Mello FM. He received the Order of Distinction in 2010 for his contribution to broadcasting.

Ka’Bu Ma’at Kheru

Ka’Bu Ma’at Kheru can be heard on Sunday mornings at IRIE FM, hosting her program, “Running African”. Ka’bu has a long history in broadcast journalism, currently she serves as Program Director at IRIE FM/Grove Broadcasting Company, Ltd. In addition, the author and poet recently published her third book of poetry, entitled “Maling Kenke From Memory”. Her previous books include “A Tint of Blue” and ‘Jungle Me”(Island Heart).

Winford Williams

Winford Williams’s career in media and marketing spans more than 25 years. He entered the scene in 1991 as a sales executive at Power 106 FM and within a year became a contributor in content creation and production. In 1994, Williams joined CVM TV in media marketing and production. In 1997 Williams developed a one hour concept we have all come to know as, “Onstage”. Shows such as “Hit List” and “The Party” are just two TV programs he created and served as Executive Producer. Onstagetv.com is the interactive website from Williams’ Caribbean Entertainment Productions (OnstageTV). He knows no bounds in getting the story, be it the Grammy Awards in LA, Reggae artists on tour in Europe, Africa and the Far East. Williams’ experience in marketing and production coupled with his huge fan base have fueled the growth of shows highlighting staple events on the Jamaican entertainment calendar – among them Rebel Salute, Reggae Sumfest and the Air Jamaica Jazz and Blues Festival.

Balford Henry

Balford George Henry has been a top print journalist for more than 40 decades. Covering labor, politics and industrial relations, didn’t prevent him from pursuing his first love, music. His first entertainment story published in 1972 was about Junior Byles’ massive hit, “Beat Down Babylon.” His incisive coverage led him to become the main entertainment and parliamentary reporter at the Daily Gleaner in 1980. He produced an eight -page tribute to the late Bob Marley after his death in 1981. Henry eventually left the Gleaner for the Observer in 2005, where he has continued to write on parliament and culture. In 2009, he became Consultant Editor at the Jamaica information Service(JIS). Henry returned to the Observer in 2012 where he has continued to write on parliament and culture. He was awarded the Order of Distinction (O.D., Officer Class) for contribution to journalism in 2011. In February 2019, he was one of 50 people honored for the development of Jamaica’s reggae music over the 50 years since its creation.

Norma Brown Bell

When FM transmission was introduced on the then RJR radio station called ‘”Capitol Stereo,” Norma Brown Bell was the first voice listeners heard on September 1, 1972. Norma has remained a Broadcaster since then, with a journalism career spanning 47 years. She has worn several hats within the RJR Group, now the RJR/Gleaner Group: Senior Broadcaster/Supervisor/Manager(Fame 95.5FM); Program Director(RJR 94 FM); Sales Marketing Representative; Community Outreach Officer; and the Roving Morning Traffic Reporter on RJR 94 FM since 2002. In recognition for her community service and journalistic efforts, Norma has received the Prime Minister’s Medal of Appreciation for service to Jamaica, Community and Nation Building, as well as being awarded the Order of Distinction (Officer Class) for Excellence in the Field of Broadcasting both in 2003.

Dennis Howard

Dr. Dennis Howard has worked as entertainment journalist, radio presenter, television producer, record producer, author and music historian. Has been in the business for over 30 years, during which he has held several positions at various media houses in Jamaica. To say he has worn many hats over his career is an understatement. In the music business, he has a solid reputation as a Grammy nominated producer, artist manager, publicist, sound system deejay and production manager. Howard holds a Ph.D. in Cultural Studies and Ethnomusicology from the University of the West Indies and is an adjunct lecturer in the Institute of Caribbean Studies in the Entertainment and Cultural Enterprise Management degree program.

Martin’s International Culture(MIC) 37th International Reggae & World Music Awards

IRAWMA

Martin’s International would like to extend a special thanks to our staff, team members, hosts, sponsors, presenters, performers, advertisers and other participants Hosts: Tony Rebel, Koffee VIP Reception Host: Rohan Gunter

Performers

Freddy McGregor Capleton & The Prophecy Band Top One Frisson Fancy Gadam The Heptones Da Flame Cherry Natural Richie Innocent Spice D’ Angel Orisha Sound Richie Innocent/Cherry Natural 4-Bent Dancers Alpha Boy School IRAWMA All Stars Backing Band Dean Fraser-Musical Director and others