Shenseea, Vybz Kartel, and Collie Buddz Lead the 2025 Reggae Grammy Nominations
The Recording Academy has announced the nominees for the 2025 Grammy Awards in the ‘Best Reggae Album’ category, and this year’s lineup showcases both celebrated icons and rising stars in the reggae world. The nominations, revealed during the Academy’s live-stream event on November 8, include albums from Shenseea, Vybz Kartel, Collie Buddz, The Wailers, and a soundtrack inspired by the Bob Marley biopic.
Collie Buddz receives his second consecutive Grammy nod with Take It Easy, following his previous nomination for Cali Roots Riddim 2023. Known for his unique fusion of reggae and dancehall, Buddz’s latest project continues to resonate with fans and critics alike, cementing his reputation in the genre.
Shenseea has made waves once again with her album Never Gets Late Here. Although she previously earned a Grammy nomination for her contributions to Kanye West’s Donda, this marks her first time being recognized in the reggae category. Known for her versatility and powerful presence, Shenseea brings a fresh perspective to reggae with her distinctive voice and style.
Vybz Kartel, the influential dancehall icon, has earned his first Grammy nomination with Party With Me. The album, released in May while he was still incarcerated, offers a deeply personal collection of songs and has garnered widespread acclaim. Following a landmark legal decision, Kartel was released from prison in August after the UK Privy Council overturned his murder conviction, adding a significant chapter to his storied career.
The Wailers return to the Grammy stage with Evolution, marking their second nomination after their 2021 nod for One World. As legends in the reggae world, The Wailers’ latest album reaffirms their place in the genre, continuing to evolve while staying true to their roots.
The highly anticipated Bob Marley: One Love – Music Inspired By the Film soundtrack rounds out the nominees. The album features reinterpretations of Bob Marley’s classic hits by an impressive roster of artists, including Daniel Caesar, Kacey Musgraves, Wizkid, Leon Bridges, Shenseea, Farruko, Jessie Reyez, Mystic Marley, Bloody Civilian, and Skip Marley. With its ties to Marley’s legacy and the successful biopic, this soundtrack is seen as a leading contender in the category.
The Grammy Awards’ Reggae category, which celebrates “excellence in albums of reggae music, including roots reggae, dancehall, and ska music,” received 75 submissions this year. To qualify, albums must consist of at least 75% new reggae recordings. This year, the Academy introduced additional criteria regarding the eligibility of featured artists, producers, and engineers. Artists who contributed to more than 50% of an album’s playing time remain eligible for nomination, but those with less than 50% playtime now receive a Winners’ Certificate, recognizing their contributions to nominated albums.
This year’s Best Reggae Album nominees capture a broad range of reggae’s evolving sound, from roots reggae and dancehall to innovative collaborations. With a mix of newcomers and veterans, this category promises a fierce competition. Among the favorites, the Marley-inspired soundtrack holds special significance due to Marley’s enduring influence on reggae. As the genre continues to expand its global reach, the nominees for the 2025 Grammy Awards reflect reggae’s growth, resilience, and ongoing relevance.
The 67th Annual Grammy Awards will celebrate these accomplishments and more, underscoring reggae’s legacy and its role in global music culture.
