Dancehall heavyweight Vybz Kartel is once again dominating conversations within the genre after securing a commanding 11 nominations at the 43rd staging of the International Reggae and World Music Awards (IRAWMA), reinforcing his post-release resurgence and continued cultural impact. The nominations, announced during a press launch in Kingston, place Kartel ahead of fellow international hitmaker Sean Paul, who earned eight nods, while reggae icon Burning Spear is set to receive the prestigious Lifetime & Master of World Music honour.
The announcement ceremony, staged at the R Hotel Rooftop Restaurant and led by IRAWMA founder Ephraim Martin, highlighted the awards’ 43-year legacy of celebrating reggae and world music excellence. Kartel’s nominations span major categories including the Bob Marley Award for Entertainer of the Year, the Peter Tosh Award for Recording Artiste of the Year, and Best Album for Heart & Soul. His gospel-inspired single God Is the Greatest also earned recognition for Best Song and Best Music Video, signalling the artiste’s evolving musical range and strong digital traction across streaming platforms.
Further strengthening his global crossover appeal, Kartel secured collaboration nominations alongside international stars Travis Scott and DJ Khaled, underscoring dancehall’s continued influence within mainstream pop and hip-hop markets. Meanwhile, the ceremony also honoured reggae pioneers through category titles bearing the names of legends such as Bob Marley, Peter Tosh, Gregory Isaacs, Toots Hibbert, and Jimmy Cliff, reflecting the genre’s rich historical foundation.
Beyond the music, organisers also presented a J$1 million humanitarian donation to Black River Hospital following hurricane damage, reinforcing the awards’ cultural and community mission. Award-winning singer Richie Stephens delivered a live performance to close the launch event. The 43rd IRAWMA ceremony is scheduled for May 17, 2026, at the Lauderhill Performing Arts Center in Lauderhill, where fans worldwide will watch closely to see if Kartel’s dominance converts into another milestone moment for dancehall’s global reach.
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