The UK Reggae Biz Honors its Own
February is reggae month, so what better time of year for the British Reggae Industry Awards to take place? Last night a who’s who of reggae artists and shot-callers came together at the IndigO2 to give recognition to the workin’ peeps in the biz. The evening was packed with good vibes from award presentations to stage performances. One of My fave’s of the night was watching the Scottish band I Foundation. It’s been a minute since Scottish reggae’s been on the radio! They were super cute and they have a sense of humour too: walking past them backstage I overheard one of them saying “I think we need to go to Scotland to get some sun.” Maybe they were serious!?! Anyone who was out on the town in London last night knows it was bloody freezing!
David Rodigan turned up to collect his award for “Best Male Radio Personality.” Maxi Priest won “Best Male Vocalist.” Alton Ellis’s daughter Lovella picked up “Best Female newcomer” and she also collected “Best Male newcomer” for her brother Christopher Ellis—who was nominated for not 1 but 3 categories. His single “English” was up for best single, and he was also up for best British Video for his cover of his father’s “Williow Tree.” Looks like the Ghetto youth is makin’ moves, just in time for the launch of the Ghetto Youths album next Tuesday. Skibu bagged Best Album & Video, Gappy Ranks received Best MC and Best Single and Jah Shaka took home the award for “Best British Sound System.” Overall it was a night of good vibes and happy sounds in the place. As the compere said, “We nah pay fe scream—it free!” Full List of Winners & Video Interviews After The Jump…