Haitian musician Wyclef Jean, is gearing up to host the inaugural Caribbean Music Awards. This celebration of Caribbean music is scheduled to take place on August 31 at the iconic Kings Theatre in Brooklyn.
Jean’s enthusiasm for this event was palpable during a recent interview on NBC’s Today Show. Reflecting on the Verzuz episode that showcased Caribbean artists Bounty Killer and Beenie Man in May 2020, Jean pointed to the immense success of the show as an indicator of the significant potential the Caribbean Music Awards hold. He emphasized how this episode rekindled the love for Caribbean culture, uniting people through their shared passion for fashion and music.
“For me, what’s exciting is Caribbean culture is shared, whether it’s fashion or [music],” Jean enthused, underlining the event’s aim to unite and celebrate the vibrant tapestry of Caribbean musical artistry.
No stranger to hosting award shows, Jean’s hosting prowess was previously on display during the 2000 MTV Europe Music Awards held in Stockholm. Marking his grand entrance on an elephant, Jean expressed a similar desire for a spectacular and memorable introduction at the Caribbean Music Awards.
Wyclef Jean boasts an illustrious musical career.
His contributions were pivotal to the monumental success of the Fugees’ 1996 album “The Score,” which garnered two Grammy awards. Additionally, his role as a co-producer for Santana’s “Supernatural” secured the esteemed Album of the Year award in 1999.
Jean’s impact extends beyond music, with a Golden Globe nomination in 2005 for co-writing the song “Million Voices” for the film “Hotel Rwanda.”
The Caribbean Music Awards promises an impressive lineup, spanning 26 categories across a myriad of genres including reggae, dancehall, soca, kompa, and zouk.
The event will also pay homage to the exceptional contributions of Trinidadian soca singer, record producer, and songwriter Machel Montano.
Montano, an influential figure in the music world, will be bestowed with a lifetime achievement award.