Few journeys in Jamaican music feel as personal as that of reggae artiste Romain Virgo.

For many, his voice is not just familiar; it’s woven into memories that stretch back nearly two decades to a young talent stepping nervously yet confidently onto the stage of Digicel Rising Stars.

From the very beginning there was something unmistakable about the youngster. It wasn’t just the clarity of his tone or the maturity in his delivery — it was the sincerity. Week after week during the talent competition audiences watched a young man pour himself into each performance, unknowingly laying the foundation for a career that would stretch far beyond the limited series.

Fans of the entertainer, especially those following his progress since his teen years, will feel like Virgo has grown up before their very eyes — a sentiment he too shares, especially as he looks ahead to celebrating 20 years in the music industry.

“I am grateful and happy. Next year is my 20th anniversary in music, and we have big, big plans. I can’t wait,” he said, his anticipation unmistakable. “Nineteen years ago I won Rising Stars, and it was definitely a blessing. Without Digicel I don’t know if I’d reach this far, and so big up Digicel every time.”

While not divulging too much about his celebratory plans, Virgo revealed that it is a no-brainer that the festivities will include his fans. As he prepares to honour not just the years behind him, but the fans who have walked every step of the journey with him, Virgo says he is filled with gratitude each time he assesses how far he’s come in music.

“Twenty years is a milestone, and I don’t want to miss the opportunity to do something for that special year. I am beyond grateful when I look at how far I’ve come, and that keeps me going,” he said, hinting at what fans can expect for his 20th anniversary. “I just want to lean into the 20th year with gratitude and just the plans to celebrate in a big way. We’re already in the planning phase… I can’t say everything, but it’s going to be magnificent. I’m looking forward to that — it’s going to be a special year.”

Among his many plans is a new body of work which will segue into a broader celebration.

Having evolved into one of reggae’s most reliable voices, Virgo has managed to build something enduring. Song after song, stage after stage, he has proven that consistency, discipline, and authenticity still matter. The boy who once stood under bright competition lights has become a commanding performer, equally at home on intimate stages in Jamaica as he is before international audiences.

Having earned star status, Virgo’s name now sits comfortably among the genre’s leading voices, a testament to years of work. As he looks ahead to his 20th year in music, Virgo is embracing the moment with both excitement and intention.