Dancehall legends Moses ‘Beenie Man’ Davis and Rodney ‘Bounty Killer’ Price are among 150 Jamaicans to receive national honors this year. Announced on Independence Day, these awards will be presented on Heroes Day in October.
Other notable entertainers on the list include Nadine Sutherland and Glendon Orville ‘Admiral Bailey’ Bailey, who are also recognized for their significant contributions to Jamaican music.
Beenie Man and Bounty Killer
Both Beenie Man and Bounty Killer have been awarded the Order of Distinction (OD) in the rank of officer for their contributions to the development of dancehall music.
– Beenie Man, known as the ‘King of the Dancehall,’ started his career at five years old and gained prominence after winning the Tastee Talent Contest in 1981. His eighth studio album, ‘The Many Moods of Moses,’ earned him a Grammy nomination in 1999. His hit songs include ‘Who Am I,’ ‘Girls Dem Sugar,’ and ‘Rum & Redbull.’
– Bounty Killer, often called the “poor people’s governor” for his socially conscious lyrics, rose to fame in the early 1990s with hits like ‘Coppershot’ and ‘Spy Fi Die.’ His other popular tracks include ‘Benz and Bimma,’ ‘Fed Up,’ and ‘Sufferer.’ He also featured on No Doubt’s Grammy-winning single ‘Hey Baby.’
Nadine Sutherland and Admiral Bailey
– Nadine Sutherland, who celebrated 45 years in the music industry this year, was signed to Bob Marley’s Tuff Gong Label after winning the inaugural Tastee Talent Contest at 11. Her hit songs include ‘Action’ with Terror Fabulous, ‘Babyface,’ and ‘I’m In Love.’ She holds a Masters of Arts in Cultural Studies from The University of the West Indies (UWI) and has lectured internationally.
– Admiral Bailey became popular in the 1980s with his energetic dancehall anthems and military-themed performances. He started his career with hits like ‘One Scotch, One Bourbon, One Beer’ and ‘Politician,’ and continued with successful singles like ‘Big Belly Man’ and ‘Jump Up.’
Additional Honorees
Other honorees include Dr. Curtis Watson for his contributions to music and international performances, and veteran actress Audrey Reid for her impact on the local film industry.
This recognition highlights the profound impact these individuals have had on Jamaican culture and the global music scene.
