Another Juno for Exco
JAMAICA-BORN, Canadian reggae artiste Exco Levi created history by winning his fourth-consecutive Juno Award on Saturday. The announcement was made ahead of last night’s live show at the from Hamilton’s FirstOntario Centre in Ontario.
The Juno Awards are Canada’s version of the Grammys.
Exco Levi copped the award for Best Reggae Recording for his project Welcome the King. He won in this same category in 2012, 2013 and 2014.
Speaking to the Jamaica Observer from his Toronto base, Exco Levi whose given name is Wayne Ford Levy, said he is taking the win in stride and is really greateful.
“My feeling for this win is the same as others, because for a person who was born in the country, Manchester, Jamaica, to be written down in the history of Canadian music, I am truly blessed,” he said.
“All of them [the Juno wins] are special, even just a nomination, because I know I had to work hard, sacrifice a lot to accomplish all of them. I never prepare a speech for the Juno Awards, because win or lose, I still give Jah the glory,” he continued.
Canada’s Juno Awards is celebrating 40 years. However, the reggae category was only introduced a dozen years ago.
Exco Levi’s win saw him topping one of Tasha T, Kirk Diamond, Mikey Dangerous and Steele are also nominated in the Best reggae recording category.
There is no letting up for the artiste, as come Wednesday he releases his latest album — an autobiographical concept set entitled Country Man.
Produced by Donovan Germain on his Penthouse Records, the project traces his earliest years living in Manchester. Exco Levi said he plans to hit the road to promote it.
“To all my supporters and well wishers, I just want to say thanks for all the support that you have given me,” he said.