Four of Jamaica’s female entertainers are set to receive one of Paterson, New Jersey’s highest civic honours this weekend, as Sister Nancy, Minister Marion Hall, Lady G and Lila Iké are presented with the Key to the City during the Bill McKoy Foundation’s 10th Annual Jamaica Day Celebration. The recognition, to be bestowed by Mayor Andre Sayegh, comes as the two-day cultural festival commemorates both its 10th anniversary and Jamaica’s 64th year of Independence, celebrating the enduring global impact of reggae and dancehall across four generations.
The event, scheduled for August 1-2 at Eastside Park, pays tribute to women whose careers have helped shape Jamaican music on the world stage. Sister Nancy, one of dancehall’s first internationally recognised female deejays, will be honoured for more than four decades of influence, fuelled by her timeless 1982 anthem Bam Bam. The iconic recording has become one of reggae’s most sampled songs, finding new audiences through artists including Jay-Z, Beyoncé, Kanye West and Damian “Jr Gong” Marley. “We are deeply honoured to have Sister Nancy at Jamaica Day this year, as we celebrate her incredible achievements,” said Bill McKoy, founder of the Bill McKoy Foundation. “Her music has transcended borders, united people across cultures, and continues to inspire audiences around the world.”
Minister Marion Hall, formerly known as Lady Saw, will receive her honour during Sunday’s Gospel Fest in recognition of both her musical legacy and the inspirational journey that followed her transition into ministry in 2015. “Minister Marion Hall’s remarkable testimony is one of courage, redemption, and unwavering faith,” McKoy said. “Her decision to dedicate her gifts and platform to glorifying God has inspired countless individuals around the world.” Veteran dancehall star Lady G will also be recognised for her more than three decades of contributions to Jamaican music and for helping to open doors for generations of female artistes. “Lady G has earned her place among the legends of Jamaican music,” McKoy added. “She has proudly represented Jamaica across the world while helping to define an era of dancehall music.”
Representing the next chapter of reggae, Grammy-nominated singer Lila Iké will be honoured for carrying the genre’s messages of unity, consciousness and social justice to a new generation of listeners. “Lila Iké represents the future of reggae music while honouring the rich legacy of those who paved the way before her,” McKoy said. The Jamaica Day Celebration will also feature performances from Lady G, Rhoda Isabella and Golda McFarlane, alongside Jamaican cuisine, artisan vendors, cultural exhibitions and family-friendly activities, underscoring the festival’s mission of celebrating Jamaica’s rich heritage while connecting communities across the diaspora.
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