Vybz Kartel and Shenseea headline Reggae Grammy nominations

Two of Jamaica’s biggest musicians celebrate career firsts as Vybz Kartel and Shenseea receive Grammy nominations.

Kartel and Shenseea headline the Best Reggae Album Grammy list, confirmed during the Grammy nomination announcement ceremony in Los Angeles on Nov. 8. Kartel, one of dancehall’s greatest-ever products, receives his first-ever Grammy nod in his decades-long career for his latest EP, “Party With Me.” Meanwhile, Shenseea secures a Grammy nod for her studio album, “Never Gets Late Here.” The acclaimed artistes contest the Bob Marley: One Love soundtrack, Collie Buddz’s Take It Easy and The Wailers’ Evolution.

Career Firsts for Vybz Kartel and Shenseea

Vybz Kartel and Shenseea are among the list of artistes nominated in the best reggae album category for the 67th Annual Grammy Awards. Kartel is nominated for the album ‘Party With Me’, while Shenseea gets the nod for ‘Never Gets Late Here’. #GLNREnt pic.twitter.com/48i1QbQQRj

— Jamaica Gleaner (@JamaicaGleaner) November 8, 2024

For Kartel, the Grammy nomination comes as “Di Teacha” experiences a career Renaissance following his release from prison in July after the courts overturned his murder conviction. Kartel released “Party With Me” in May. This came before his first post-prison EP, “First Week Out,” came out via Hapilos in August. The dancehall legend marks his return to the stage on New Year’s Eve (Dec. 31) when he headlines his star-studded Freedom Street concert at the National Stadium in Kingston.

Meanwhile, “Never Gets Late Here” marks the first time she’s received a Grammy nomination for her own project. She previously landed a Grammy nod for her contribution to Kanye West’s “Donda,” which was nominated for Album of the Year in 2022. “Never Gets Late Here” features hit tracks such as “Die For You,” “Work Me Out” (feat. WizKid) and “Hit and Run.” The chart-topping album highlights a banner year for Shenseea, who continues to build her reputation as a proper crossover act.