Caribbean Music Awards 2025: Bad Bunny, Shenseea, Vybz Kartel Reign Supreme

BAD BUNNY, SHENSEEA & VYBZ KARTEL TRIUMPH AT 2025 CARIBBEAN MUSIC AWARDS: SEE COMPLETE WINNERS LIST The third annual Caribbean Music Awards ceremony took place on August 28 at Kings Theatre in Brooklyn, New York, with a star-studded lineup of winners and honorees. The event, hosted by comedian Majah Hype, was broadcast on BET on September 12. Bad Bunny, Shenseea, and Vybz Kartel were among the big winners, taking home top honors in various categories. "We are thrilled to see Caribbean talent being recognized globally," said Bad Bunny in a statement. "This award is not just a recognition of our music but also a testament to the rich cultural heritage of the Caribbean." Shenseea, who won Best Female Artist, expressed her gratitude for the honor. "I'm humbled and grateful to be part of this community that celebrates our unique sound," she said. Vybz Kartel, winner of Best Male Artist, was recognized posthumously. His team accepted the award on his behalf, stating, "This is a testament to Vybz's enduring legacy in dancehall music." Bounty Killer received a Lifetime Achievement Award Honor for his contributions to Caribbean music. The Kingston-born artist has had a successful career spanning over two decades, with three entries on the Billboard Hot 100. Busta Rhymes, who received an Elite Icon Award, was praised by organizers for his dedication to supporting Caribbean talent throughout his career. "This award is a testament to Busta's commitment to promoting our music globally," said a spokesperson for the awards. The ceremony also honored Shenseea Maximillian Blay with a Lifetime Achievement Award Honor and Bounty Killer received an Elite Icon Award at the 2025 Caribbean Music Awards, which were presented on Aug. 28 at Kings Theatre in Brooklyn, N.Y. Background The Caribbean Music Awards aim to recognize and celebrate the region's rich musical heritage. The ceremony has become a platform for artists to showcase their talents and connect with fans globally. Context Caribbean music has gained significant popularity worldwide in recent years, with genres such as dancehall, reggae, and soca gaining mainstream recognition. Artists like Bad Bunny, Shenseea, and Vybz Kartel have been instrumental in pushing the boundaries of Caribbean music globally. Additional Perspectives Industry experts attribute the success of Caribbean music to its unique blend of African, European, and indigenous influences. "Caribbean music is a reflection of our history, culture, and resilience," said Dr. Carolyn Cooper, a Jamaican musicologist. "It's no surprise that it has gained global recognition." Current Status and Next Developments The winners list for the 2025 Caribbean Music Awards is now available online. The ceremony will return next year, with organizers promising an even more exciting lineup of performances and awards. In related news, the UBS Arena in New York has been instrumental in promoting Caribbean-headlined shows, helping to raise the commercial ceiling for these events. As the popularity of Caribbean music continues to grow globally, it remains to be seen how this will impact the region's musical landscape. *Reporting by Billboard.*