Dancehall artiste Busy Signal and reggae singer Wayne Wonder will be among the biggest stars of Jamaica’s 64th Independence celebrations on Thursday when they receive the Government of Jamaica’s annual Reggae Icon Award during the Independence Grand Gala at the National Stadium.

The award recognises artistes who have helped shape the global reach and enduring influence of reggae and dancehall music.

The presentation will be one of the highlights of the Grand Gala, the flagship event of Jamaica’s Emancipation and Independence celebrations, which is being held under the theme “United in Celebrating Resilience.” Organised by the Ministry of Culture, Gender, Entertainment and Sport through the Jamaica Cultural Development Commission (JCDC), the production will feature more than 1,800 performers celebrating the country’s history, culture and creative achievements.

Prime Minister Andrew Holness is expected to present the awards during the nationally televised event.

Wayne Wonder, born Von Wayne Charles, achieved international success after signing with Atlantic Records. His 2003 crossover hit “No Letting Go” reached No. 11 on the Billboard Hot 100 and No. 3 on the UK Singles Chart, while his album “No Holding Back” helped establish him as one of reggae’s most successful crossover artists.

Busy Signal, whose real name is Reanno Devon Gordon, has been one of dancehall’s most prolific performers for more than two decades. Nicknamed “Busy Signal” because he was always on the move, he has built an extensive catalogue of hits, including “Jamaica Love,” “Smoke Some High Grade,” “Happy Birthday,” “Tic Toc,” “Nah Go A Jail Again,” and “Unknown Number.” His albums, including “Step Out” and “Loaded,” have showcased his ability to blend dancehall, reggae and crossover sounds.

Beyond the awards presentation, this year’s Grand Gala will commemorate the 50th anniversary of women serving in the Jamaica Defence Force, feature a ceremonial flag-raising recreating the country’s first Independence ceremony in 1962, and celebrate the 10th anniversary of Kingston’s designation as a UNESCO Creative City of Music.

The evening will conclude with a fireworks display and a synchronised drone show featuring 1,000 drones.

The Reggae Icon Award has previously been presented to some of Jamaica’s most influential musicians, including Capleton and Leroy Sibbles in 2025, Third World in 2024, Grammy-winning group Morgan Heritage, and Rita Marley and Sizzla Kalonji in 2019.

The Grand Gala begins Thursday at the National Stadium and will be broadcast live on Television Jamaica (TVJ) as well as the social media platforms of the JCDC and the Jamaica Information Service.