Lady Lava Tops 2026 Caribbean Music Awards Nominations

The 2026 Caribbean Music Awards has officially launched its public voting period, unveiling its largest slate of nominees to date with more than 250 artists and projects recognized across over 40 categories.

Fans can now cast their votes through August 10, 2026, celebrating achievements across a wide range of genres including dancehall, soca, reggae, konpa, bouyon, zess, chutney soca and other styles representing the Caribbean and its global diaspora.

Leading this year’s field is Lady Lava, who earned an impressive nine nominations, making her the most recognized artist in the 2026 edition. Close behind are Ayetian, Machel Montano and V’ghn, each receiving seven nominations for their contributions across multiple categories.

Shenseea and Skillibeng each collected six nominations, while Masicka, Popcaan, Valiant, Vybz Kartel and Yung Bredda secured five nods apiece. Artists including Full Blown, Jesse Royal, Joé Dwèt Filé, Kes, Lila Iké, Lola Doll, Mical Teja, Mikado and Voice also enjoyed strong showings with four nominations each.

Among individual tracks, “Shake It to the Max (Fly) Remix” by Moliy, Skillibeng, Shenseea and Silent Addy emerged as the most nominated song of the year with three recognitions. Other standout releases earning multiple nominations include “Wah Yo Deh Pon,” “Passenger Princess,” “Jab Decisions,” and “4 Kampé II.”

Organizers say this year’s nominations reflect the continued evolution of Caribbean music, highlighting collaborations, genre-blending creativity and the growing international influence of artists from across the region.

The upcoming ceremony builds on the momentum of previous editions, including last year’s milestone broadcast on BET, further strengthening the awards’ role in showcasing Caribbean talent on the global stage.

Public voting opened on June 10 and will remain available until August 10, giving music fans worldwide the opportunity to help determine this year’s winners.