WITH only weeks left for next year’s Grammy nominees to be announced, music marketer and executive producer of Tropical House Cruises to Jamaica: The Asian Edition, Sean “Contractor” Edwards is optimistic that the project, which was submitted for consideration in the Best Reggae Album category, has a high chance of being nominated.

“The Grammys bring a certain excitement into the music business and renewed interest in singles and albums released months ago. Knowing that our album is 100 per cent reggae and has Grammy winners Morgan Heritage and Ms Lauryn Hill, we knew we had something to offer to the Grammy race,” he told the Jamaica Observer.

Nominations will be announced on November 10. Tropical House Cruises to Jamaica: The Asian Edition was released in December 2022. It was headlined by Chris Gayle and also features Capleton, Sizzla, Shav A, Camar, Backpack Shawty, Stamma Kid, Cyanide OFTM, All Star, Melodiq and 10th Wonder. It eventually soared to number one on the Reggae iTunes Chart in the United States.

Meanwhile, Edwards added that the variety of acts on the project is what makes it a strong contender.

“Firstly, the consistent success of the Tropical House Cruises to Jamaica brand of albums in reggae makes it appealing to be on the list. Also, the merger of sports fans and music fans, with Chris Gayle as headliner, also gives more mass appeal. Having Capleton and Sizzla on the album as grass roots also gives it authenticity. The album also opens doors for new artistes Kali Ranks, Lady Marga MC, and Inoah, and new producers Camar Flava and Makonnen Blake Hannah,” he explained.

In the same breath, Edwards is encouraging his compatriots to get more involved in the Grammy process, to help promote reggae music globally.

“I would advise young artistes and producers to go online and register with the Grammys and become a voting member. They can then learn the rules and guidelines and submit their work with high standards to compete with the best in the genre,” he said.