Coral Springs, FL – The 42nd International Reggae and World Music Awards (IRAWMA),founded by the esteemed Dr. Ephraim Martin, once again delivered an unforgettable night, last Sunday honoring the biggest names in reggae, dancehall, and world music at the Coral Springs Center for the Arts on March 30th, 2025. This prestigious event celebrated the artists, pioneers, and contributors who have shaped the global music scene, while also spotlighting the new generation of entertainers making waves in the industry.
This year’s star-studded awards ceremony featured a spectacular lineup of performers, heartfelt tributes, and prestigious accolades, reinforcing IRAWMA’s legacy as the premier platform for honoring the best in reggae, dancehall, and world music. Broward County Commissioner Hazelle Rogers did the welcome greeting on behalf of Broward County.
Kings were named and were crowned. One of the most memorable moments of the night was when Dr. Oliver Samuels was crowned the “King of Caribbean Comedy,” a well-deserved honor recognizing his over 55 years of excellence in Caribbean theater, comedy, acting and entertainment. Dr. Samuels went on to host a segment of the show, and it didn’t take long to see why he was rightfully crowned the King of Caribbean Comedy.
For their non-stop, three decades Reggae Dancehall, 1995 to 2025, the three Bs, Beenie Man, Bounty Killer and Buju Banton were named "Kings of the Dancehall" over the last three decades.
Another historic highlight of the night was the coronation of Beenie Man as one of the “Kings of Dancehall”. A dominant force in reggae and dancehall for decades, Beenie Man has shaped the genre with his infectious hits and captivating stage presence. He was nominated for two
IRAWMAs. In true kingly fashion, he took the stage earlier delivering an electrifying performance that had the audience on their feet. Bounty Killer and Buju were not at hand to be Crowned. All three, each captured three big Awards that included the Dancehall Kings.
The Bob Marley One Love Movie received a Special Diamond Award and won the Best Album/CD- 2024. African Shatta wale, also won three IRAWMAs. New artists Nigy Boy and YG Marley, shared the Best New Artist category. Concert of the year went to Vybz Kartel & Producer DSE (Joseph Bogdonovich) for “Freedom Street”. A total of 11 Special Awards and 42 nominated Awards were handed out, and all the winners and achievers can be seen at www.irawma.com, where you can continue to register to watch the full Awards on pay-per- view.
The stage ignited with electrifying performances from Beenie Man, Nigy Boy, Everton Blender,
Wayne Wonder, Richie Stephens, D'Angel, Mr. Specialist, and many more. But the true magic happened during the grand finale—a show-stopping moment where Beenie Man, the legendary Oliver Samuels, and an all-star lineup of entertainers came together for an epic celebration of reggae and world music. It was an explosion of talent, energy, and pure musical bliss—one that fans will be talking about for years to come!
According to Dr. Ephraim Martin, this marks the 9th time in 42 years that IRAWMA has made a significant presence in Florida. Following the recent establishment of a nonprofit chapter in the state, IRAWMA has announced that it will now maintain a permanent presence in Florida, with its South Florida chapter serving as a central hub for ongoing activities. Over the past 42 years, IRAWMA has proudly nominated more than 18,900 individuals and honored over 3,300 awardees across the globe. Now, as we prepare to return to Florida for the 10th time, we do so with renewed commitment and a long-term vision for growth and cultural celebration. Hosting the event indefinitely in Florida signals a new era for IRAWMA and the communities it serves.
As IRAWMA looks ahead to its 43rd year, the commitment to celebrating and uplifting reggae and world music remains as strong as ever. The 43rd IRAWMA is set for May 3rd, 2026, in South Florida and early tickets will be on sale soon at www.irawma.com.
Thanks to the supporting sponsors, Broward County Florida Cultural Division, Tuff Gong Intl, VP Records, Reggae Festival Guide and Masterpiece Events Production among others.
Become a sponsor, vendor, advertiser and reach an untapped market to brand your product/business, email irawma@gmail.com.
For More Information:
Terrel Blackett
Terrel.Martinsinternational@gmail.com, irawma@gmail.com, or visit IRAWMA.com
