In a historic nod to dancehall’s growing global influence, the Recording Academy has announced the nominees for the 67th Grammy Award for Best Reggae Album, placing dancehall stars Vybz Kartel and Shenseea in the spotlight. Kartel’s Party With Me and Shenseea’s Never Gets Late Here are both up for the prestigious award, marking a significant milestone for the genre. For Kartel, this nomination reaffirms his status as a transformative force in dancehall, despite personal and professional challenges. Shenseea’s nomination, meanwhile, underscores her rapid rise as a multifaceted artist bridging reggae, dancehall, and pop, making her a major player in Jamaican music. “This year’s nominees reflect the vibrancy and versatility of reggae and its subgenres,” the Recording Academy stated, highlighting the impact of dancehall on reggae’s legacy.
Joining Kartel and Shenseea in the Best Reggae Album category are reggae heavyweights Collie Buddz, Bob Marley, and The Wailers. Collie Buddz’s Take It Easy brings a relaxed, classic reggae vibe, while Bob Marley: One Love – Music Inspired By The Film pays tribute to the enduring influence of the late reggae icon. Completing the list, Evolution by The Wailers stands as a testament to reggae’s rich roots and cultural legacy. The mix of nominees this year signifies a balance between traditional reggae sounds and the more modern, electrifying pulse of dancehall, showcasing the genre’s evolving landscape.
This shift towards recognizing dancehall as a part of reggae’s evolution marks a growing appreciation of the genre’s unique contributions to Jamaican music. Kartel’s nomination, especially, is a milestone given his often-controversial career, while Shenseea’s spot celebrates her ability to capture audiences with a fresh, crossover appeal. The inclusion of dancehall highlights “a broadened scope of what reggae encompasses today,” said one industry insider. With the Grammy Awards set for February 2, 2025 at the Crypto.com Arena, fans of both traditional reggae and contemporary dancehall are eagerly anticipating which artist will take home the coveted award.
