The Ministry of Education, Sports and Creative Industries, and the organizers of the Antigua and Barbuda National Music Awards 2025 proudly extend heartfelt congratulations to the winners, special awardees, and nominees who were recognized for their outstanding contributions to the nation’s vibrant music industry on Tuesday evening.
Celebrating Excellence Antigua Barbuda
In a press release, the Ministry noted that the event served as a powerful celebration of the immense talent, creativity, and dedication that continue to shape the soundscape of Antigua and Barbuda. From seasoned musicians and arrangers to emerging artists, cultural ambassadors and contributors to the development of the industry, the 2025 honourees represent the very best of the island’s musical excellence. We are proud of your contributions.
“We salute the award winners whose artistry and commitment to their craft have set new standards within the industry. As most of our awardees share, their achievements (are) a reflection of countless hour of dedication and a passion for music that inspires both locally and beyond.”
Special congratulations to: Gospel Artiste of the Year- Rashid Walker; Dancehall/Reggae Artiste of the Year- Niqko Wyld West; Calypsonian of the Year- Ge’Eve Philip; Producer of the Year- Andrew Smilius Dorsette; Soca Artiste of the Year presented by Caribbean Union Bank- Tian Winter; Pannist of the Year- Maurisha Potter; Arranger of the Year – Dr. Zahra Lake; Steelband of the Year presented by State Insurance Company Ltd. – Hellsgate Steel Orchestra; School Steelband of the Year presented by ECAB – PMS Serenaders (Princess Margaret School); Instrumentalist of the Year – Dwight Laviscount; Band of the Year presented by Rovier Surgical Suites – Kutting Eddge Band; Jam Band of the Year presented by KFC – Kaution Band; Recording Artiste of the Year presented by ACB Caribbean – Tian Winter; Song Writer of the Year presented by KOSCAB – Art Drastic Philip; MC of the Year presented by KOSCAB – Steve “Ibis the Livest” Freeland; Disc Jockey of the Year presented by Cool & Smooth – DJ Quest; Sound of the Year – King Warrior Sound; Niche Event of the Year – Heaven – RnB Experience; Large Scale Event of the Year presented by Autocraze – Rise by DJ Jime Events; Song of the Year Presented by Ship to Shore – BB Service, Soca Villian.
Special Recognition Awards: Patrick Johnny Gomes; Just Soul; Veron Henry; Dalma Boogie George; Dr. Renee Smith; Ogliver “Destroyer Snr” Jacobs; Vince McCoy; Patrick Edwards; James “Sly J” Simon; 2025 Ricardo Drue Foundation Award; Ge’Eve Philip.
Chairman’s Awards: Enoch Thomas; Lifetime Achievement Award (Presented by Community First Cooperative Credit Union) – Mr. Roland Prince; Rupert “King Swallow” Philo; Junior Jagger Martin.
We are equally congratulating all the nominees, whose remarkable talent and hard work earned them a place among the nation’s finest. Being nominated is itself a testament to the excellence and influence everyone brings to the musical community.
The Antigua and Barbuda National Music Awards remains an important platform for recognizing artistic achievement while promoting the continued growth and sustainability of the country’s music industry.
The event also highlights the critical role music plays in preserving culture, telling our stories, and uniting our people with vibes and rhythms.
To our sponsors – ACB Caribbean, Community First Cooperative Credit Union (CFCCU), KOSCAB, KFC, Rovier Surgical Suites, ECAB, State Insurance Company Ltd., Caribbean Union Bank (CUB), Ship to Shore – we say a hearty thank you and look forward to continued partnership for years to come.
To everyone who continues to support the musical artform, we look forward to your continued involvement in the 2026 nomination process, as we witness the ever changing, ever continuous evolution of Antigua and Barbuda’s music scene and the incredible impact our artists will undoubtedly continue to make.
Once again, congratulations to all winners, awardees, nominees and sponsors for contributing to a truly memorable and successful Antigua and Barbuda National Music Awards 2025.
