Dominica shines at 2024 Caribbean Music Awards

Bouyon artist, Ridge, of Dominica turned out to be one of the shining stars of the night at the 2024 Caribbean Music Awards, held in the historic Kings Theatre, Brooklyn, New York, on August 29, 2024.

The Caribbean Music Awards was all about embracing the colourful and vibrant heritage of Caribbean music, celebrating the incredible talents and stellar contributions of artists across the Caribbean region.

Ridge is a major Bouyon artist from Dominica, and he was also recognized with the prestigious Bouyon Artist of the Year award. This is evidence that as Bouyon music increases in influence, it will be furthered across the globe as a dynamic music genre fusing Soca, Dancehall, and traditional Dominican rhythms.

The Caribbean Music Awards have always celebrated the rich tapestry of Caribbean music, and this year was no different. Other legendary artists to be honoured this year included Marcia Griffiths, Alison Hinds, and Cedella Marley for monumental service to the genre.

Each of the respective artists has played or continues to play a major role in shaping the Caribbean musical landscape, and the various accolades reflect this very fact with their lasting influence during the event.

The line-up of electrifying performances that made center stage at the awards ceremony, captured the varied musical arrangements that define the Caribbean music culture.

From Soca to Dancehall to reggae, the list only proved just how culturally varied the Caribbean is and the huge effect it has had on the global music scene. The various performances gave different island artists the opportunity to share their unique sounds with an international audience.

The 2024 Caribbean Music Awards was not an homage to brilliant talent alone but to how Caribbean music keeps changing and reinventing itself. With the likes of Ridge sending ripples throughout the world’s musical stage, they do carry a bit of Caribbean culture with them, further solidifying the region as one of the strongholds in the world of music.

Those who wish to have more of Ridge’s energetic Bouyon songs, have a great opportunity as he is set to perform at the World Creole Music Festival, scheduled to take place in Dominica from 25th to 27th October 2024 and will feature the Caribbean performers in an event featuring Creole and Caribbean music in all its hues.

This representation by Dominica forms an indication of the growing status this island is assuming in the global music arena. With continued success by Ridge and such performances to be staged at the World Creole Music Festival, Dominica’s rich musical heritage will be even better shone.