The Caribbean Music Awards nominations are officially out, and the 2026 field is already generating major conversation across the Caribbean music industry. Lady Lava emerged as the Awards’ most nominated artist with nine nominations, surpassing leading stars including Shenseea, Skillibeng and Vybz Kartel, while “Shake It To The Max (Fly) Remix” by Moliy, Skillibeng, Shenseea and Silent Addy secured the title of the year’s most nominated song. With more than 250 nominees across 40-plus categories, this year’s ceremony reflects the growing global dominance and crossover power of Caribbean music.
The nominations mark the biggest edition of the Caribbean Music Awards to date, with organisers expanding the platform to spotlight a broader spectrum of regional sounds. New categories this year include Dennery Artist and Song of the Year, Zess Song of the Year, Konpa Song of the Year, Chutney Soca Artist and Song of the Year, Jab Artist and Song of the Year, and French Caribbean Song of the Year. The move signals a major shift toward greater genre inclusivity as Caribbean music continues to influence audiences far beyond the region.
Close behind Lady Lava in the nominations race are Ayetian, Machel Montano and V’ghn with seven nominations each, while Shenseea and Skillibeng earned six nominations apiece. Dancehall heavyweights Masicka, Popcaan, Valiant and Vybz Kartel each secured five nominations, reinforcing Dancehall’s continued influence within the global music space. Meanwhile, records like “Passenger Princess”, “Wah Yo Deh Pon”, “Jab Decisions” and “4 Kampé II” also emerged among the year’s strongest contenders.
The Awards continue to evolve into one of the Caribbean’s most significant entertainment platforms following last year’s historic ceremony, which premiered on BET for the first time. That breakthrough broadcast expanded the event’s international reach and helped position the Caribbean Music Awards as a growing global showcase for Caribbean talent, culture and storytelling.
Voting officially opened on June 10 and will run through August 10, giving fans worldwide the opportunity to support their favourite artists and songs. As anticipation builds for the fourth annual ceremony, this year’s nominations have already sparked intense debate online, setting the stage for one of the most competitive Caribbean music seasons in recent years.
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