This year’s star-studded awards ceremony featured a spectacular lineup of performers, heartfelt tributes, and prestigious accolades, reinforcing IRAWMA’s legacy as the premier platform for honoring the best in reggae, dancehall, and world music. Broward County Commissioner Hazelle Rogers did the welcome greeting on behalf of Broward County.
Kings were named and were crowned. One of the most memorable moments of the night was when Dr. Oliver Samuels was crowned the “King of Caribbean Comedy,” a well-deserved honor recognizing his over 55 years of excellence in Caribbean theater, comedy, acting and entertainment. Dr. Samuels went on to host a segment of the show, and it didn’t take long to see why he was rightfully crowned the “King of Caribbean Comedy.”
For their non-stop, three decades Reggae Dancehall, 1995 to 2025, the three Bs, Beenie Man, Bounty Killer and Buju Banton were named “Kings of the Dancehall” over the last three decades. Another historic highlight of the night was the coronation of Beenie Man as one of the “Kings of Dancehall”. A dominant force in reggae and dancehall for decades, Beenie Man has shaped the genre with his infectious hits and captivating stage presence. He was nominated for two IRAWMAs. In true kingly fashion, he took the stage earlier delivering an electrifying performance that had the audience on their feet. Bounty Killer and Buju were not at hand to be Crowned. All three, each captured three big Awards that included the Dancehall Kings
The Bob Marley One Love Movie received a Special Diamond Award and won the Best Album/CD 2024. African Shatta Wale, also won three IRAWMAs. New artists Nigy Boy and YG Marley, shared the Best New Artist category. Concert of the year went to Vybz Kartel & Producer DSE (Joseph Bogdonovich) for “Freedom Street”. A total of 11 Special Awards and 42 nominated Awards were handed out, and all the winners and achievers can be seen at www.irawma.com, where you can continue to register to watch the full Awards on pay-per- view.