Dancehall artiste Bounty Killer was honoured with the Lifetime Award at the 2023 International Reggae and World Music Awards (IRAWMA).

The ceremony, which took place on Sunday (May 7) saw the music veteran being honoured for his contributions to the Jamaican music industry for more than 30 years.

In a post on his Instagram displaying the award, the ‘Hello yallow’ artiste said that it was an honour to be given such recognition, especially in his hometown Kingston.

“Give thanks to all who had played even a tiny role or part on my journey to here. I truly appreciated y’all despite where we’re today Salute,” he said in the post.

In another post, he also thanked the IRWMA for recognizing his dedication and contributions to Jamaican culture.

The IRAWMA is a music award ceremony that highlights the accomplishments and contributions of entertainers in various categories of reggae and world music and promotes greater participation and acceptance of Reggae, Caribbean, African, and other World Music internationally.

This year the IRWMA is celebrating 40 years of existence, a milestone that Bounty spoke to in his acceptance speech.

“It’s not easy to keep these things going,” Bounty Killer said. “Even in the pandemic, these people make sure they recognize who to be recognized. So listen, Jamaica, let’s support us. Everybody is excited about the Grammy and the Emmy and nommy but listen, IRAWMA! This ain’t no drama. Forty years! Wul dat,” the Grammy award-winning dancehall star said.

The Anytime also received praise from those within the music industry who noted that the award was well deserved.

“You deserve even more and more and more, one General. We need a Bounty statue In Jamaica big like the Statue a liberty,” wrote dancehall artiste Spice in a comment under Bounty Killer’s Instagram post.

“Well deserved me and @ stephenmarley been listening to [Bounty Killer] from high school days. Nuff respect legend” wrote reggae singer Ziggy Marley.