Canada-based reggae singer Onique (real name Onique Clarke), who moved to Canada in 2013 and who is originally from the district of Mount Moriah in St Ann; Tugstar (real name Howard Johnson), who is originally from Clarendon; and singer Ammoye, who is also from Clarendon, were the big winners at the Reggae North Music Awards (RNMA) which was held on Sunday September 27 at Rose Theatre, in Brampton, Ontario, Canada.

Onique took home two awards, Reggae Single of the Year (Male) for the inspiring song Fathers and Songwriter of the Year.

Ammoye was also a double winner, copping Entertainer of the Year and sharing the trophy for Trap/Fusion Single of the Year (Female) with Samora for their hit collaboration More Reggae (Funk it Up), which was nominated for a JUNO Award earlier this year.

Tugstar took home trophies for Male DJ of the Year and Trap/Fusion Single of the Year (Male) for Cucumba.

Broadcaster and recording artiste Tony Anthony, founder and curator of the Reggae North Music Awards, told the Jamaica Observer that the third staging of the awards was the biggest to date.

“The event has grown tremendously since its inaugural staging in 2024. We have seen a significant increase in attendance, as well as growing support from people across other provinces. We have also been fortunate to receive sponsorship and support from major companies and organisations, including GraceKennedy, Log & McQuade, Tasjay Productions, FLOW 987, and Humanity Ova Vanity (HOV). This continued support demonstrates the growing recognition and impact of the Reggae North Music Awards (RNMA),” said Tony Anthony.

He also added, “This year’s event had our strongest turnout to date, and the response from the audience was truly encouraging. The level of support shows that the awards are continuing to build momentum within the reggae community.”

The event featured performances by Tony Anthony, Jazmin Headley, Andru Branch, Celena, Paris Ivy, Onique, Zackious Cooper, Tugstar, Stone G, and Duane Stephenson, all backed by the Hardcore band.

Tony Anthony reflected on some of the event’s high points.

“There were several memorable moments throughout the evening, but one of the highlights was the presentation of the Living Legend Award to Jay Douglas. Having spent more than 50 years in the music business, Jay Douglas is a true veteran of the industry. His emotional acceptance speech touched everyone in the audience and created a powerful and unforgettable moment during the ceremony,” said Tony Anthony.

Looking ahead, Tony Anthony shared new award categories and other changes may be coming for the awards.

“We will begin planning for next year’s event in the coming weeks, and there are always opportunities for expansion — adding new award categories is certainly something that is on the table. We are also looking forward to identifying and bringing the next Jamaican superstar to the RNMA stage. As the awards continue to grow, we want to create even more opportunities to celebrate reggae music, its artists, and its contribution to the culture,” he assured.