The University of the West Indies (UWI) will confer an honorary Doctor of Letters (DLitt) degree on reggae icon Marcia Griffiths during its 2025 graduation ceremonies, recognizing her six decades of contributions to music, culture, and the empowerment of women.
Griffiths, hailed as the “Queen of Reggae,” has been one of the genre’s most influential voices since the 1960s, helping to shape its evolution from Kingston’s dancehalls to the global stage.
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She began her career in 1964 with Byron Lee and the Dragonaires before working under the guidance of Phillip “Boasie” James of the Blues Busters and Clement “Coxsone” Dodd at Studio One. Her breakthrough came in the 1970s when she joined Bob Marley and the Wailers as part of the legendary I-Three harmony trio.
As a solo artist, Griffiths achieved international acclaim with songs such as Stepping Out a Babylon, while her 1982 collaboration with Bunny Wailer on Electric Boogie sparked a worldwide dance craze. Over the years, she has released 19 solo albums, five duet albums with Bob Andy, and numerous collaborations, including hits with Penthouse Records like I Shall Sing and Fire Burning.
Her artistry has been matched by national recognition. She received the Order of Distinction in 1994, was elevated to Commander Class in 2014, and in 2023 was awarded the Order of Jamaica, one of the country’s highest honors.
Beyond her music, Griffiths has consistently championed women in reggae, describing her mission as not only to entertain but to “reach out to touch souls, to teach, educate, and uplift.”
This year, UWI will honor 11 distinguished figures across its five campuses between October 11 and November 8, including the late Don Wehby, Bishop Robert Clarke, and Professor Gene D. Morse. The honorees represent a broad spectrum of contributions in music, agriculture, religion, science, and aviation, reflecting UWI’s commitment to celebrating excellence across disciplines.
