Both Wayne Wonder and Busy Signal are the latest dancehall artistes to be recognised at the annual Independence Day Grand Gala.

This year’s event, in celebration of the nation’s 64th anniversary, will be hosted under the theme ‘United in Celebrating Resilience’.

Dancehall music has never been short of colourful characters, especially in the 1980 and 1990s when Wayne Wonder was making his name. Still, the singer says being outrageous has never been his style.

In an interview with the Jamaica Observer, Wayne Wonder, born Von wayne Charles, said: “This is special because being recognised by your country, the Government, is a blessing. It’s an honour to receive this.”

From East Kingston, he got his start on sound systems in areas like his hometown of McIntyre Villa (popularly known as Dunkirk). Wayne Wonder’s career flourished during the 1990s at Penthouse Records and Mad House Records, where he worked with producers Donovan Germain and Dave Kelly, respectively.

Busy Signal.

That era was noted for risque and violent songs by acts like Shabba Ranks and Ninja Man. There were also infamous artiste clashes at the annual Sting concert and the Bounty Killer/Beenie Man feud.

Wayne Wonder — whose hit songs include Saddest Day of My Life, Joy Ride, and No Letting Go — says avoiding confrontation has never been a problem.

“Over di years, dat’s jus’ my personality, jus’ conduct myself with principle an’ respect. A jus’ me dat bro, mi jus’ want to be a good yute an’ guh through.”

Artiste Busy Signal hails from St Ann and has been a leading figure in contemporary dancehall since 2003. His first hit single, Step Out was followed buy successful releases such as Nah Go A Jail Again, Smoke Some High Grade, Tic Toc, and Unknown Number.

In 2012, Busy Signal released his first authentic reggae album, Reggae Music Again. He is known for his energetic dancehall style and versatility, blending reggae and dancehall influences.

Wayne Wonder.

Busy Signal remains an influential figure in entertainment, particularly his contributions to the global music scene.

Veterans Beres Hammond, Sizzla, and Sanchez have been named Reggae Icons, as well as ska legend Derrick Morgan and reggae band Third World.

Jamaica’s 65th anniversary celebrations next year will mark the final staging of the country’s flagship national celebrations at the National Stadium in Kingston before the facility undergoes major redevelopment.

Minister of Culture, Gender, Entertainment and Sport Olivia Grange made the announcement during a post-Cabinet press briefing held at Jamaica House last week.

The traditional maypole dance is performed during the 2023 Independence Grand Gala at the National Stadium.

“Next year, we have a milestone year, Jamaica 65, and it will be the last year that our celebrations will be held at the National Stadium. After that, we will prepare for our expansion and redevelopment. But I’m just putting everyone on alert, Jamaica 65 will be a special year,” she said.

Turning to this year’s celebrations, Minister Grange said members of the public who are unable to secure tickets for the Grand Gala at the National Stadium, will still be able to enjoy the event through a special watch party at Independence Village.

She explained that the arrangement was made in response to an overwhelming demand for tickets.

“I am making a special appeal that if… we’re unable to provide you with tickets for the stadium, that you will accept the tickets we have available for Independence Village where you can be a part of the watch party,” she said.

The Gala will conclude with its customary fireworks display, alongside an expanded drone show featuring 1,000 drones, as well as a motorcycle display by the Jamaica Constabulary Force.

— Howard Campbell