Staff WriterA number of music awards acknowledge Reggae and World music, with one or two categories thrown in to show some appreciation. The International Reggae and World Music Awards (IRAWMA), honors Reggae music equally alongside its World Music counterparts. The IRAWMA has traveled to numerous locations in it’s 29-year history. So it’s only fitting that music so rich in culture and history find a home in a place with an even more impressive story to tell, like New York City.
The prestigious red carpet 28th Annual International Reggae and World Music Awards (IRAWMA) produced by Martin’s International & Associates, LLC returns to New York City, on Sunday May 2nd. The star-studded event is dedicated to “health awareness” and the “people of Haiti” will take place at York College Performing Arts Center located at 94-45 Guy R. Brewer Blvd in Jamaica, New York. The VIP reception begins at 6:00 pm and general admission is at 7:30 pm.
Jamaica’s sing/jay Queen Ifrica captured nine nominations and set an IRAWMA record for most nominations in a single year for a female artist. Other leading contenders include : Tarrus Riley(six nominations); Machel Montano and Gramps Morgan(five nominations each); Julian Marley, Sean Paul and Macka Diamond (four nods each); followed by Barbee, Beenieman and Vybz Kartel with three nominations each.
Grammy award winning songstress India.Arie and fellow IRAWMA nominee Gramps Morgan share a Best Crossover Song nomination for their duet on the single “Therapy”. In addition, India. Arie and lyricist Matisyahu are each slated to receive the Martins International Award of Honor.
Wyclef Jean and Rev Al Sharpton will receive the Marcus Garvey Humanitarian Award for their tireless efforts in the community. Veteran entertainer/songwriter will receive the Producer’s “Respect” Award. Music pioneers Maurice “Jack Scorpio” Johnson, Noel “King Sporty” Williams, Tony Ryan and Tony Greene will be inducted into the IRAWMA Hall of Fame. Radio personalities Trevor Forde, Ron Muchette, Donovan Longmore and Ricot Dupuy will be honored with a special award for their contribution to music, arts and culture.
Just in case you thought that this was just about Reggae music, the IRAWMAs recognize artists in Gospel, Salsa, Latin, Reggaeton, Calypso, Soca, African, Soukous, Compas, Racine and Hip Hop. “We remain steadfast in our commitment to honor those who have made their mark globally in the Reggae and World Music industry,” says Ephraim Martin, president of Martin’s International and Associates and IRAMWA producer.
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