Who will take home the 64th Grammy award for Best Reggae Album? That is one of the the biggest questions going into tonight’s ceremony set to be held at the MGM Grand Arena, Las Vegas.
Over the past three years the Reggae category has become more competitive and less predictable as more diverse and local acts have returned to the section.
This is year’s group of nominees are no different with two first time nominees along with multiple female entrants vying for the award.
Spice
Among the diverse nominees, is Dancehall artiste Spice for her Album ‘10’. Spice’s nomination adds a little flavor to the category by not only being a first-time nominee, but also creating history as the first female Dancehall act to be nominated for the accolade.
‘10’ which was released in 2021 was has debuted at no.1 on the reggae Billboard and includes Chart topper ‘Go Down Deh’ featuring fellow Shaggy and fellow nominee Sean Paul as well as smash hit ‘So mi like it’. With success of her projects and renewed global appeal the queen of the Dancehall is hoping to reign supreme tonight.
Jessie Royal
Another first-time nominee is Reggae singer Jessie Royal for his ‘Royal’ project. The Album is Jessie’s second official studio release since his critically acclaimed ‘Lilly of the Valley’ debut project in 2017.
The ‘Small Axe’ has been steadily and consistently putting out works that have garnered global acclaim and is finally being recognized for another impressive body of work, proving that the small axe if used correctly, over time can create a big impact.
Etana
Another album to watch is Pamoja by the ‘strong one’ Etana. The Reggae songstress makes a return to the awards for the second time, after her breakthrough ‘Reggae Forever’ album in 2019.
Etana who has been ‘quietly’ supplying the international Reggae pallet with wholesome productions strong emotional vocals, has clearly struck the right chords with fans of the genre, as the 16-track album receives the thumbs up for nomination.
Gramps Morgan
Positive vibration, that’s what Gramps Morgan has delivered on his album of the same name as he makes his solo entry into the awards category. The 15-track album, the third solo release by Grammy winner is one of the more diverse in sound with its Reggae meets country theme songs. With the fusion both genres which are loved by Reggae community gramps is aiming to capitalize on the mutual appreciation and is hopeful they’re the Grammy’s are feeling the vibrations.
SOJAH
American Reggae band SOJAH has begun to find familiar ground at the awards after being nominated for the third time in five years for their ‘Beauty in the Silence’ album. Shows that the beauty of Reggae’s influence and message has no boundaries just positive vibes.
Sean Paul
The living legend, ‘Dutty Paul’ himself; Sean Paul rounds out the prestigious group of Grammy nominated acts for this year with his ‘Live N Livin’ album.
The Grammy winning artiste celebrates his nineth nomination and is perhaps is favorite to add a second win to his catalogue.
The project is Sean’s seventh studio release and is laced with features from the heavy hitters like Reggae Royalty Damion ‘Jr Gong’ Marley, the ‘Gargamel’ Buju Banton, Masicka, Busy Signal, Skillibeng, Afrobeat star Stone Boy, ‘Gully Gad’ Mavado and Agent Sasco.
He previously won the award in 2003 for his multi-platinum selling album ‘Dutty Rock’
