Kingston, Jamaica — The 43rd Anniversary of the International Reggae and World Music Awards (IRAWMA), powered by Martin’s International, officially revealed its Best of 2025 nominees during a distinguished press conference held Thursday, February 19, 2026, at the R Hotel Rooftop Restaurant in Kingston.
The event, streamed live globally, combined celebration with service, highlighting IRAWMA’s continued mission of “Bringing Nations Together Through Music and Culture” under the 2026 theme: “JAMAICA RISE.”
Hosted by Mr. Clyde McKenzie, OD, the evening commenced with an Opening Prayer by Thomas Cowan, OD, followed by a powerful presentation of “The Road Travelled,” chronicling IRAWMA’s 43-year legacy of honoring reggae and world music excellence worldwide.
Donation Presentation to Black River Hospital
In a moving humanitarian gesture, Martin’s International Foundation presented a donation of One Million Dollar-JA, to Mrs. Diana Brown-Miller, CEO of Black River Hospital in St. Elizabeth to assist in rebuilding its Maternity, Diabetes, and Kidney Treatment Centers following the devastation of Hurricane Melissa. The Hospital CEO expressed heartfelt appreciation for the contribution and for the show of international solidarity. The funds were raised through a GoFundMe established by Martin’s International, Jamaican American Association of the Midwest and Dr. Odie Payne, OPJ Records, and over 40 other donors.
Special Tributes: Hon. Justice Shelvin and Rev. Jesse Jackson
The ceremony included a special video tribute flashback featuring Martin’s International with the Hon. Justice Shelvin L.M. Hall presenting a lifetime Freedom Fighter award to the Hon. Rev. Jesse Jackson who transitioned recently February 17, 2026. The Hon. Justice Hall is the late wife, partner and director of Martin’s International. The 43rd IRAWMA is dedicated in her honor.
Founder and President of Martin’s International Foundation and Chief Creator and Producer of IRAWMA, Dr. Ephraim Martin, BHM, DBA, addressed attendees on “Why IRAWMA?,” emphasizing its global cultural relevance, economic contribution, and legacy of excellence.
Nominees Revealed – Best of 2025
Nominees were unveiled by Dr. Ephraim Martin alongside distinguished industry leaders including June Isaacs, Copeland Forbes, Winford Williams, Tommy Cowan, Jeffery Sutherland, Omar Sutherland, Ewan Simpson (Chairman for Jarai), Josef Bogdanovich, Mr. Clyde McKenzie, Jacqueline Jackson, Ryan Bailey, and others.
Some 40 categories were announced, of which Vybz Kartel lead the way with 11 nominations, followed by Sean Paul with 8 nominations. Burning Spear (aka Stephen McGregor) will also be receiving a Lifetime & Master of World Music. Wayne Armond (Chalice) will also receive a lifetime achievement. Howard Chung (VP Records); George Crooks (Promotor/Producer); Awilo Longombo (African Entertainer) will receive lifetime achievement awards. (Complete nominee list available at www.irawma.com)
Major Categories Announced Include:
- Emperor of Reggae & World Music – Hon. Bob Marley Award (Entertainer of the Year)
- Peter Tosh Award – Recording Artist of the Year
- Jacob Miller Award – Best Male Vocalist
- Best Female Vocalist
- Gregory Isaacs Award – Best Song
- Toots Hibbert Award – Best Album/CD
- Jimmy Cliff Award – Best Crossover Entertainer
- Best Gospel Entertainer
- Best Male & Female DJ/Rapper
- Best Afrobeat & African Dancehall Entertainer
- Best Collaboration Song – Reggae & Other Genres
- Best Music Video
- Best Sound System/Dance DJ
- Festival of the Year (Multiple Days)
- Concert of the Year (One Day)
- Marcus Garvey Humanitarian Award
- Florida Salute Awards
- Special Hall of Fame & Lifetime Achievement Honors
(Complete nominee list and tickets available at www.irawma.com)
Special Performance
IRAWMA Award-winning artist Richie Stephens delivered a memorable performance, energizing the audience and reinforcing the night’s celebratory spirit.
Sponsors & Partners
The press conference and 43rd IRAWMA are made possible through the support of:
- Broward County Florida Cultural Division
- VP Records
- Masterpiece Events Productions
- R Hotel Kingston, DSE
- Reggae Festival Guide
- JAMUSA
- ExpressMedia
- FLEXX Media
- Lyssareva Print Press (Toriano Montaque)
and numerous global partners.
Looking Ahead
The 43rd Annual IRAWMA Awards Ceremony will take place:
Sunday, May 17, 2026
Lauderhill Performing Arts Center
3800 NW 11th Place
Lauderhill, Florida 33311
Red Carpet & VIP Reception: 6:00 PM EST
Awards Showcase: 7:30 PM EST
Public voting is now in progress at www.irawma.com. Fans are encouraged to subscribe to the IRAWMA YouTube channel and cast their votes to select the winners. https://www.youtube.com/irawma
