Vybz Kartel, Shenseea Nominated for Best Reggae Album Grammy
Dancehall heavyweights in the running for prestigious award
Two of Jamaica's biggest dancehall stars, Vybz Kartel and Shenseea, have been nominated for the Best Reggae Album Grammy Award for their respective albums, Of Dons and Divas and Alpha.
Vybz Kartel's prolific career continues from behind bars
Despite being incarcerated since 2014, Vybz Kartel's musical output has remained prolific, with Of Dons and Divas being his fifth studio album released while in prison. The album features collaborations with some of dancehall's biggest names, including Bounty Killer, Beenie Man, and Popcaan. Kartel's nomination is a testament to his enduring influence and the continued relevance of his music.
Shenseea's global breakthrough
Shenseea's nomination marks a significant milestone in her career. Her album, Alpha, was released in March 2022 and debuted at number one on the Billboard Reggae Albums chart. The album features collaborations with some of the biggest names in dancehall and Afrobeats, including Sean Paul, 21 Savage, and Tyga. Shenseea's nomination is a reflection of her global appeal and her status as one of the most exciting new voices in reggae.
Jamaican dancehall dominates Grammy reggae category
The Best Reggae Album Grammy Award has been dominated by Jamaican artists in recent years, with winners including Koffee, Buju Banton, and Bob Marley's posthumous releases. This year's nominations continue this trend, with all five nominees being Jamaican artists. This dominance is a testament to the continued strength and vitality of Jamaican dancehall music.
Conclusion: A testament to Jamaican dancehall's global impact
The Grammy nominations for Vybz Kartel and Shenseea are a testament to the global impact of Jamaican dancehall music. These two artists represent the best of the genre, and their nominations are a recognition of the continued relevance and popularity of dancehall worldwide.