Veteran artiste Ken Boothe has been announced as the 2026 Jamaica Music Museum Hall of Fame inductee.

Some of reggae’s best voices will be on hand to pay musical tribute at the induction. This will be led by the 2026 Reggae Month Ambassador Etana, Richie Stephens, sensational singing group LUST (with Lukie D, Singing Melody, Thriller U and Tony Curtis), and Chris Malachi, one of reggae’s rising stars.

Born in Denham Town, the 77-year-old is known for his reggae tunes such as Everything I Own, Crying Over You, and When I Fall in Love.

With some 60 years in the industry, Boothe has ruled stages across several continents.

In 2003 the Government honoured him with the Order of Distinction for his contribution to Jamaican music.

Well known bass player and founding member of the Fab 5 band Frankie Campbell will also be honoured with the presentation of the Lifetime Achievement Award on the occasion.

Minister of Culture and Entertainment Olivia “Babsy” Grange announced the honours on Friday along with 15 Reggae Gold awardees.

Frankie Campbell

“I am proud to announce the 2026 awardees who represent the depth, diversity and enduring strength of reggae music,” Minister Grange said. “Through their talent and dedication, they have strengthened Jamaica’s cultural identity and contributed to the global reach of our music. Reggae remains one of Jamaica’s most powerful cultural exports, and we must continue to honour those who have shaped its journey.”

The presentations are scheduled for Friday, February 27, 2026 at 7:30 pm inside the National Arena.

The 2026 Reggae Gold awardees are: Steve Golding (guitarist); Mikie Bennett (songwriter/producer); Desmond Young (singer); Delroy “Fatta” Pottinger (music engineer); Noel Phillips “Echo Minott” (singer); Tristan Palmer (singer/producer); Colin “Bulby” York (producer); The Wailing Souls (to be represented by George Bancroft “Buddy” Haye); John McMorris “Little John” (deejay); Elaine Wint (broadcast journalist); Winston Barnes (broadcast journalist); Anthony Alphanso Waldron “Lone Ranger” (deejay); Delroy Thompson “Pinchers” (singer); Lester Randall Bullock “Dillinger” (deejay); and Hugh James “Redman” (deejay).

Launched in 2019 to mark the 50th anniversary of reggae music, the Reggae Gold Awards were conceptualised to preserve the genre’s essence and ensure it continues to inspire future generations.

Each year, one of our music icons is showcased with the Reggae Symphony Orchestra. This year “Reggae’s Messenger” Luciano takes centre stage. The orchestra will be under the baton of celebrated conductor Peter Ashbourne. Embedded in the orchestra will be Megaband, a reggae ensemble with Michael “Megabass” Fletcher as band leader.

The minister also outlined that in a further demonstration of reggae’s international reach, the programme will include a performance by KAWA, a reggae band straight out of China.

“Reggae’s message of resilience, faith and social consciousness continues to resonate…” Minister Grange noted. “The inclusion of a reggae band from China is a testament to the music’s universal appeal. Though born in Jamaica, reggae belongs to the world and the world continues to embrace it.”

Both Little John (left) and Pinchers will receive 2026 Reggae Gold awards. Lionel Rookwood