REGGAE singer Dennis Brown and veteran harmony trio the Mighty Diamonds are this year’s recipient of the annual Bob Marley One Love trophy.

The announcement was made by Clive ‘Busy’ Campbell, event organiser, at the event’s media launch held at Cuddy’z Sports Bar and Restaurant in New Kingston, yesterday.

“Over the years, we (the committee) have lauded veteran artistes, who we believe, have established themselves and helped spread reggae music all over the world. So, this year, we’ll be recognising Dennis Brown and the Mighty Diamonds,” Campbell told the

Jamaica Observer.

“It is not easy… as we looked at so many of them. And there are many of them to be honoured,” he continued.

The awards ceremony will take place after the Bob Marley One Love Fun Day Football Matches at Arnett Gardens Sports Complex in Kingston, on February 10.

Born in Kingston on February 1, 1957, Brown established himself as a bona fide artiste at 11. Dubbed the Crown Prince of Reggae, he had a prolific career and recorded more than 75 albums. His hits include

Wolves and Leopards, Cassandra, andHere I Come.

Brown died of pneumonia in July 1999. He was 42. The singer was posthumously honoured by the Jamaican Government for his contribution to music in 2011.

Known for standards including

Roof Over my Head, Right Time andPass Koutchie, the Mighty Diamonds are considered roots-reggae icons.

Recording since 1969, the group comprises Donald ‘Tabby’ Shaw,, Fitzroy ‘Bunny’ Simpson and Lloyd ‘Judge’ Ferguson. They have produced more than 40 albums and are still actively performing.

Started in 1982, the Bob Marley One Love charity matches have awarded several veteran acts including Toots and the Maytals, Ken Boothe, Alton Ellis, Burning Spear, Delroy Wilson and John Holt.

The proceeds from this year’s event will go towards Lyndhurst Basic and Ferry Basic schools in Kingston.

— Brian Bonitto