The inaugural Antigua and Barbuda National Music Awards transformed the John E St Luce conference center into a showcase of the nation’s finest talents last night.

This event, spearheaded by the Ministry of Creative Industries, marked a historic moment in the country’s cultural landscape after overcoming COVID-19 related delays since 2019.

The ceremony honored artists across multiple genres, from traditional calypso to modern soca, while paying tribute to the legends who have shaped Antigua and Barbuda’s rich musical heritage.

Here are the award Winners:

Main Categories:

– Gospel Artist of the Year: Rashid Walker

– Calypsonian of the Year: Leston Jacobs

– Soca Artist of the Year: Claudette Peters

– Pannist of the Year: Aubrey Samuel

– Arranger of the Year: Malik Smith

– Steelband of the Year: C.U.B. Hells Gate Steel Orchestra

– Producer of the Year: Andrew Dorsette of Smilus

– Dancehall/Reggae Artist of the Year: Jordan Thomas

– Sound Clash Group of the Year: Kanabis Sounds

– Disc Jockey of the Year: DJ Quest

– Best Recording Artist of the Year: Claudette Peters

Special Recognition Awards:

Music Schools:

– Le Chataeau D’or Music Academy

– Antigua and Barbuda Youth Symphony Orchestra

Choral Contribution:

– Antigua Barbuda Coral

Long Serving Musicians:

– Herbert “Burger” Joseph

– “Big Boy” Mason

– Eustace “Gatuaex” Harris

– Gavin Christopher

– Junior “Jagger” Martin

– Dr. George Roberts

– Herbert Joseph

– Vinema Phillip

– Stonewall Reloaded

– Chickie Hi-Fi

– Shelly Tobitt

– Ogliver “Destroyer” Jacobs

– Marion Byron

Lifetime Achievement Awards:

– Sir. Mclean “King Short Shirt” Emmanuel

– Paul “King Obstinate” Richards

– Burning Flames