Kingston, Jamaica – In a grand celebration at the National Stadium in Kingston, Prime Minister Andrew Holness marked Jamaica’s Independence Day on August 6 with the distinguished Reggae Icon Awards. Alongside President of the Senate Tom Tavares Finson, the Prime Minister presented the awards, highlighting the exceptional contributions of Patricia “Miss Pat” Chin, co-founder of VP Records, to Jamaican music and culture.
The ceremony also celebrated Beenie Man, Bounty Killer, and Third World, three major forces in reggae and dancehall music. Patricia “Miss Pat” Chin was honored for her pivotal role in bringing reggae music to the world stage. VP Records, founded in 1977 by Miss Pat and her late husband, Vincent Chin, has been instrumental in the global success of reggae.
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Originating from Vincent’s jukebox business in Kingston, which evolved into Randy’s Records and Studio 17, VP Records relocated to Jamaica, Queens, New York, in the mid-1970s, where it thrived under Miss Pat’s dedication and passion for the music industry.
She also documented her journey and the growth of reggae music in her 2021 coffee table book, “Miss Pat: My Reggae Music Journey.” Beenie Man, often hailed as the “King of Dancehall,” and Bounty Killer aka the “Warlord” received recognitions for their enduring influence in the dancehall genre. Both artists are set to receive the Order of Distinction in the Rank of Officer in October, further acknowledging their contributions to Jamaican music.
Third World, a band known for their unique fusion of reggae with funk, soul, and disco, was acknowledged for their nearly five-decade-long presence in the music scene. Their innovative sound and lasting legacy have solidified their status as reggae icons. The Grand Gala, featuring vibrant performances and heartfelt acknowledgments, celebrated Jamaica’s rich musical heritage and the artists who have significantly contributed to its legacy.
As Jamaica continues to honor its Independence and cultural heritage, the Reggae Icon Awards underscore the global influence of reggae and dancehall music, highlighting the artists’ substantial contributions to spreading Jamaican culture worldwide.
