Concerned about the lack of recognition for reggae in Canada, Mark Bennett decided to use his initiative and stage an awards show that would do the genre justice. The inaugural Reggae North Music Awards takes place September 29 at the Rose Theatre in Brampton, Ontario.

The event comprises 18 categories including Top Male Vocalist of The Year, Top Female Vocalist of The Year, Top Reggae Song of The Year (Male) and Top Reggae Song of The Year (Female). Canadian acts dominate the nominations which were recently announced.

“For many years, the Canadian reggae and dancehall scene has been lacking a prominent music awards show. We believe that an event of this nature is essential for fostering the development of the numerous talented singers, musicians, songwriters, and producers in Canada. Hosting an annual event where all key figures in the Canadian reggae and dancehall community come together would greatly benefit the future of our music,” said Bennett, a singer popularly known as Tony Anthony.

He told Observer Online that the Caribbean Music and Entertainment Awards, which ran from 2013 to 2019, was the last serious event recognising the accomplishments of West Indian artistes. The Juno Awards, Canada’s equivalent of the Grammys, is held annually and has a Reggae Recording of The Year category.

Born in St Catherine, Bennett has lived in Canada for over 30 years. Based in Toronto, he is one the country’s leading reggae acts and has been nominated for a reggae Juno twice.

To ensure the Reggae North Music Awards is above board, he said nominees are vetted by their peers. Bennett is pleased with the response to the show.

“The nominees were chosen by a select committee of music professionals. Tickets for the Reggae North Music Awards went on sale on June 11, and the excitement within black communities across Canada is growing louder by the day. We anticipate this event to be highly successful,” he said.

As Tony Anthony, Bennett has released three albums, three EPs and many singles.