Multi-Grammy-nominated reggae singer Maxi Priest says, even after close to four decades in the music industry, he’s still taken aback by his successes.

Speaking with the Jamaica Observer in a recent interview, the Close to You singer says he feels blessed to have gained a level of international recognition that has cemented his place among the icons of reggae music.

“You know what, I never could have dreamt this. I am so happy that as a young man who grew up in England that I have been able to do so much with the music,” he said. “It’s difficult to put what you feel into words, because it’s been such a sentimental, spiritual journey that has given me a feeling of accomplishment that to find words, wouldn’t even do it justice. It’s been a magical ride.”

Maxi Priest scored his breakthrough hit some 30 years ago with Wild World, a record that made its way to #25 on the Billboard Hot 100 and #5 on the UK Singles chart.

The artiste was recently honored by the Government with a special award at the 2025 Reggae Gold Awards and told the Observer that, although his success still leaves him in a place of awe, he was always determined to make his mark in music.

“I was a very determined youth and, from day one, I walked with God and in the faith that I could leave a legacy in this business and God has been great,” he said indicating that he still has more work to do,” he said.

“The mission isn’t complete yet, and so I have more music to produce. I’m actually in the process of getting some new music together, whole heap a music. I have a tune out with Bugle at the moment that’s doing well and this year, there will be a lot more,” the artiste continued.

Maxi Priest has received Best Reggae Album Grammy nominations for Fe Real (1994), Man with the Fun (1997), and It All Comes Back to Love (2020).

He said that the Reggae Gold Awards was an excellent production that’s long overdue.

“It’s about time. Something like this was way overdue. We’re at a decent place in our local music history [and] these kinds of productions can only get better with support,” he said.

Maxi Priest