Jamaican music heavyweights Beenie Man, Busy Signal, Spragga Benz, Vybz Kartel and Wayne Wonder were recognised Monday, February 23, for their extraordinary humanitarian work in the aftermath of Hurricane Melissa. The city of Lauderhill, home to a vibrant Jamaican-American community, presented the artists with Humanitarian Ambassador Awards during a special commission meeting celebrating International Reggae Month.
City officials highlighted the musicians’ extensive contributions to hurricane relief, noting their efforts not only provided immediate aid but also demonstrated sustained support for affected communities. “The City of Lauderhill proudly presented the Humanitarian Ambassador Awards to some of reggae’s most influential voices,” officials said on social media, adding that the honourees have shaped reggae and dancehall culture globally while actively giving back through philanthropy and mentorship.
Kartel, who mobilised his Adidja Palmer Foundation to deliver essential supplies across western parishes, expressed gratitude for the recognition. “Thank you to the Mayor, Ms. Grant, thank you to the city,” he said. “We left Canada immediately after the hurricane hit and got things moving in Jamaica. To be honoured this way is very humbling.” His foundation’s outreach included a 40-foot container of supplies, more than 12,000 bottles of water, 1,500 loaves of bread, hygiene kits, and over 3,500 hot meals in partnership with World Central Kitchen. Notably, the Westhaven Children’s Home in Copse, Hanover, which houses children with disabilities, is set to benefit from long-term support under the foundation’s “adoption” initiative.
International attention also followed, with Canadian rapper Drake pledging $100 from each “Jamaica OG Hoodie” sold through his OVO brand to hurricane relief via the Rockhouse Foundation. Meanwhile, nearby Lauderdale Lakes used International Reggae Month to celebrate Jamaican music further, officially proclaiming February 10 as Buju Banton Day, recognising the Grammy-winning performer’s decades-long influence on music and social awareness.
The humanitarian awards underscore the global impact of Jamaican artists beyond entertainment, proving that their influence resonates both on stage and in the communities that shaped them. Lauderhill’s gesture shines a spotlight on the often-overlooked philanthropic side of reggae and dancehall, reminding fans that giving back is as central to their legacy as their music.
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