Antigua and Barbuda’s vibrant music industry was celebrated Tuesday night as artists, producers and performers from across the cultural spectrum were honored at the National Music Awards, an event highlighting the breadth of talent in the country’s creative sector.
The ceremony recognized achievements across multiple genres including soca, calypso, gospel, steel pan, dancehall and live band performance, while also spotlighting emerging talent and industry contributors who continue to shape the nation’s musical identity.
Soca star Tian Winter was among the evening’s top winners, capturing both Soca Artist of the Year and Recording Artist of the Year. His presence dominated several categories, reflecting a strong year of releases and performances.
The Song of the Year award went to “BB Service” by Soca Village, a track that energized the audience as the winner was announced.
In the gospel category, Rashid Walker was named Gospel Artist of the Year, thanking supporters and encouraging fellow gospel musicians to continue producing music ahead of Antigua and Barbuda’s Independence celebrations.
The Reggae/Dancehall Artist of the Year award went to Niko Wild West, while G. Eve Phillips was crowned Calypsonian of the Year.
Behind the scenes, Andrew “Smilus” Dorsett was recognized as Producer of the Year, crediting the artists who trusted him with their music.
Steel pan and instrumental excellence were also highlighted. Marisha Potter won Pannist of the Year, while Dr. Zahra Lake was named Arranger of the Year for her work advancing steel pan education and leading Pandemonium Steel Orchestra.
The legendary Hell’s Gate Steel Orchestra captured Steel Band of the Year, marking a milestone year in which the group celebrated its 80th anniversary.
At the school level, PMS Serenaders were named School Steel Band of the Year, while Dwight Laviscount took home Instrumentalist of the Year for his work mentoring young musicians and promoting instrumental music development.
Live performance categories also featured prominently during the ceremony. Cutting Edge Band was named Band of the Year, while Caution Band captured Jam Band of the Year, thanking fans, promoters and collaborators for their continued support.
In entertainment and event categories, Steve “Ibis the Livest” Freeland was named MC of the Year, while DJ Quest won DJ of the Year for the second consecutive year. King Warrior Sound captured Sound of the Year.
The Niche Event of the Year award went to Heaven – The R&B Experience, while the Large Scale Event of the Year title was awarded to Rise by Jam Events, which organizers say has become one of the Caribbean’s most recognized carnival-related events.
During the ceremony, Education, Sports and Creative Industries Minister Daryll Matthew highlighted government efforts to strengthen the music industry through training initiatives and new opportunities for young performers. He also announced the creation of a Young Roadmarch category for Carnival 2026, aimed at giving junior soca artists, calypsonians and jam bands a platform to compete among their peers.
The awards ceremony brought together musicians, producers, cultural stakeholders and fans to celebrate the contributions of artists who continue to shape Antigua and Barbuda’s musical landscape.
Organizers said the event reflects ongoing efforts to promote local talent, encourage industry development and showcase the country’s cultural creativity both regionally and internationally.
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