As I sat in the Myles Munroe Diplomat Centre, Nassau Bahamas, waiting for the 25th Anniversary of The Marlin Awards to commence, I reflected on the many roads and how they have converged to this moment. Seated with anticipation with Toyin Adekale nominated in 2 categories, (Outstanding Adapted Song Duo) ft. Roger Samuels with Addictive Love and (Outstanding Music Video Female) with Raining Abundance H&H Mix. And also awaiting the outcome of Joshua Kesler’s Rock I Stand which was nominated in the (Outstanding Dub Recording). All 3 tracks were produced by Stuart “Hammond” Green & Keziah “Harmony” Job (H&H Productions).

Myles Munroe the Visionary

Dr Myles Munroe’s teachings and principles have helped to inspire many, and we now live out these treasured moments in his memory. He encouraged believers to be intentional about their gifts and talents, by putting God first and knowing all things are possible. His teachings provided so much encouragement to me over the years, as I attended his conferences in the UK whenever he came over. Sitting in this amazing auditorium, I recall him talking about his humble beginnings, as a “Bain Town Boy”, his journey, and his commitment to excellence in all that he accomplished.

I never dreamt that I’d get the opportunity to experience the Myles Munroe Centre in person, beholding his vision that helped to build, inspire and embrace, and now along with countless others look on as the centre is now home to many, celebrating and acknowledging the gifts and talents God has blessed us with.

Kevin Harris the Visionary

25 years ago, Kevin Harris started The Bahamian Gospel Music Marlin Awards, established to recognize outstanding achievements in Bahamian Gospel Music, and rebranded in 2000 to The Caribbean Gospel Music Marlin Awards. The vision of the awards is to inspire and encourage excellence and growth in Caribbean Gospel Music, and I have to say, the Caribbean is represented very well.

Awards night

On Sunday 3rd July 2022, a host of Caribbean & International Gospel recording nominees, artists, producers, and other industry professionals who produce and create recordings, music videos, and other creative content, for the advancement of the Kingdom of God, came together for what was truly an eventful night.

As the Radio Presenter for Reggae Royalty on UGNJAMZ for the past 4 years, it was a blessing to see many of the artists who receive airplay on the station, Positive, Dwayne Fyah, Farenite, Sherwin Gardner, Kiokya, Neesha Woodz and Mr J Bahamas to name a few.

The event was broadcast live from Trinidad & Tobago (TnT) to 7 other Caribbean islands, with the link also on Facebook, which opened the event to the whole world, to witness the amazing local and international talent who performed/ministered live on the night. The Reggae contributions were “fyaaaah”

Fast forward to the announcement of the first category, for Toyin Adekale, winner of the (Outstanding Adapted Song Duo) ft. Roger Samuels, it was an amazing and special moment to witness, bringing so many “roads” together for her, as well as myself, the category was strong, so her response was understandable, we were just happy to be in the room with no expectations. Toyin made a heartfelt acceptance speech, paying tribute to the loss of her son and mother who were her most ardent supporters, as inspiration to why her journey must continue and by God’s grace, it will.

With so many categories, only a handful was announced live on the night, so we had to check back with the website for news about our other 2 nominations, which went to Jermaine Edwards with I Look to You (Outstanding Dub) and Nisa Happy in Ah Real Lyfe (Outstanding Music Video Female) congratulations to them.

Jamie Thomas tribute

Tributes were also made on the night, to individuals, pivotal to the Caribbean Music Scene, past, present, and future. I sure learned a lot about those who paved the way that many of us enjoy walking on now. The Dr Myles E Munroe International Award of Merit went to Jamie Thomas, for his years of contribution to Caribbean Gospel Music, who passed away in 2021.

Marlin hospitality

The spirit of excellence was evident from the time we were notified by the Marlin Team of the Nominations through to touching down at the airport and having ground transportation provided throughout our stay, thank you to Heidi, for heading up the Hospitality Team. The entire Marlin Team, Breezes Bahamas (our hotel stay), and the beautiful island, of Nassau, blessings pon blessings.