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Two of Jamaica’s most impactful voices in modern reggae and dancehall—Romain Virgo and T.O.K.—are set to receive special honours at the 2025 Grammy Certificate Ceremony, a prestigious red-carpet event that shines a spotlight on the often-overlooked contributors to Grammy-winning and Grammy-nominated projects. The ceremony, spearheaded by Back 2 Da Future Music Ltd. alongside The Royalty Network Inc. and Steely & Clevie Productions, will be staged on Saturday, September 13, 2025, at the Audi Showroom in Kingston and streamed live worldwide.
The recognition pays tribute to both acts’ involvement in The Reggae Power (2014), a Grammy-nominated album produced by Sly & Robbie and Spicy Chocolate, which fused the richness of reggae with the energy of dancehall for a global audience. T.O.K. also boasts another Grammy nod for their contribution to Red Star Sounds Presents: Def Jamaica (2005), a groundbreaking project that bridged reggae, dancehall, and hip-hop. For Romain Virgo, who rose to prominence after winning Rising Stars and has since become one of the genre’s most celebrated storytellers, the honour represents another milestone in a career built on soul-stirring performances and authentic artistry.
Kennedy Mensah, CEO of Back 2 Da Future Music Ltd., praised Virgo’s journey, noting, “Rarely does a day go by that we are not basking for some reason in the mature, world-renowned artist that Romain has become. This is but one small way that we can help highlight Romain Virgo as he steps into his greatness.” Mensah further hinted at what fans are hoping for next: Virgo securing a Grammy trophy for one of his own albums.
Meanwhile, T.O.K.—the internationally acclaimed dancehall quartet whose harmonies and electrifying performances made them household names—see the recognition as a moment of reflection. “Over the years, our journey has always been about representing dancehall and reggae on the world stage,” said Bay-C of the group. “To be recognised alongside so many of Jamaica’s greatest musicians is a full-circle moment. This honour is not just for us, it’s for the fans, producers, and musicians who’ve been part of our story from day one.”
This year’s ceremony is especially significant as it coincides with the 40th anniversary of the Reggae Grammy category and the 40-year legacy of Steely & Clevie’s production career. Backed by Jamaica’s Ministry of Culture, Gender, Entertainment & Sport and partners such as ATL Automotive Jamaica and Tastee Jamaica Limited, the Grammy Certificate Ceremony continues to redefine recognition in reggae and dancehall, ensuring that the voices and visionaries who shape Jamaica’s global sound are finally given their flowers.
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