Who will capture the coveted award in these fiercely contested categories? That’s the question on everyone’s lips as the 2025 Caribbean Music Awards prepares to light up Brooklyn’s King’s Theater this Thursday, August 28. With anticipation building, the spotlight is firmly on two of the night’s most competitive categories—Male – Dancehall Artist of the Year and Male – Reggae Artist of the Year—where the region’s biggest stars are set to clash for top honours.
In the Male Dancehall Artist of the Year race, the lineup reads like a who’s who of the genre’s current heavyweights. Masicka, who already leads overall nominations with seven, is seen as a top contender following the success of his Generation of Kings album. He’ll face stiff competition from the ever-dominant Vybz Kartel, Chronic Law with his raw storytelling, and Dexta Daps, who continues to mesmerise audiences with his powerful stage presence. But the list doesn’t end there—Busy Signal, with his versatility, Kranium, known for his international dancehall fusions, Valiant, one of the new-generation standouts, and global superstar Sean Paul all add serious firepower to the category.
On the reggae side, the Male Reggae Artist of the Year nominees bring together both living legends and rising stars. Romain Virgo, with his soulful ballads, goes up against Gramps Morgan, who continues to carry the Morgan Heritage legacy. Anthony B and Tarrus Riley, each with a catalogue of anthems, remain strong forces, while YG Marley, the breakout phenom and grandson of reggae icon Bob Marley, has quickly established himself as a global voice for the new generation. The lineup is rounded out by giants Buju Banton and Sizzla Kalonji, alongside Pressure Busspipe, who has long been celebrated for his impassioned roots-reggae delivery.
These categories represent the very essence of Caribbean music—dancehall’s fierce edge and reggae’s timeless resonance. Beyond these two, the awards will also see fierce competition across newly added categories, from Caribbean Fusion to Gospel, reflecting the region’s evolving soundscape.
With Shenseea tying Masicka at seven nominations and her international profile soaring thanks to features on Davido’s 5ive and Mariah Carey’s forthcoming album, the 2025 staging is shaping up to be more than just a ceremony—it’s a showcase of rhythm, roots, and rising stars. As the countdown begins, fans and industry insiders alike are eager to see which names will be etched into Caribbean music history this Thursday.
