Share
Happy 63rd birthday to the land we love!
Jamaica’s annual Grand Gala, themed “Be Proud, Be Bold, in Black, Green and Gold,” is today (August 6) at the National Stadium.
The event features over 2,500 participants.
Reggae Icons Leroy Sibbles, Capleton, and Beres Hammond will be honoured this evening.
Gospel singer Kevin Downswell, reggae artiste Etana, and the late Garnet Silk are among this year’s national honourees for their contributions to Jamaican music.
Downswell and Etana will receive the Order of Distinction (OD), while Silk is being posthumously awarded for his impact on ’90s conscious reggae.
Others receiving the OD include producer Clevie Browne, ska pioneer Count Owen, and dance icon Dr L’Antoinette Stines.
King Jammy, known for revolutionizing dancehall, will be promoted to Commander of the Order of Distinction (CD). Writer and former Poet Laureate Olive Senior also receives the CD.
Awards will be presented on National Heroes Day, October 20.
Attendees are advised not to bring personal drones or vuvuzelas to avoid interference.
Gates open at 3 p.m.