Lady Lava, Kes and Moliy Among Big Winners at Caribbean Music Awards 2026

The Caribbean Music Awards make their Trinidad debut with a big night for local talent, as Lady Lava claims three awards, Grenada’s V’ghn celebrates a win and Jamaica’s Ayetian takes home Best New Artiste

Lady Lava and Kes share a special moment at the Caribbean Music Awards (Photo: Jono Hirst)

The Caribbean Music Awards 2026 made its Trinidad & Tobago debut on Saturday night, with artistes from across the region celebrating major wins at the National Academy for the Performing Arts (NAPA) in Port of Spain.

Fast-rising Jamaican dancehall star Ayetian secured his first major award, taking home Best New Artiste in a significant milestone for the deejay.

Ghanaian singer Moliy celebrated Dancehall Song of the Year for her smash hit “Shake It to the Max (Fly)” remix featuring Skillibeng and Shenseea. Produced by Miami duo Silent Addy and Disco Neil, the Afro-Dancehall crossover earned Moliy her first appearance at the ceremony and added another international accolade to Shenseea’s growing collection.

Kes won Male Soca Artiste of the Year. (Photo: Jono Hirst)

Trinidadian artistes enjoyed a big night, with Kes, frontman of Kes The Band, winning Male Soca Artiste of the Year.

The Queen of Steam, Lady Lava, was among the night's major winners, retaining her Zess Artiste of the Year title while adding Female Soca Artiste of the Year and Chutney Soca Song of the Year for “Cyah Pick” with Ravi B. She entered the ceremony as the most-nominated artiste with nine nods. “This event is very impactful to the Caribbean… and it gives hope to the other artistes coming up,” Lady Lava said.

Soca rising star Yung Bredda won Soca Song of the Year with his crossover hit The Greatest Bend Over.

Grenadian Jab music also had a night to remember, as V’ghn celebrated his Best Jab Artiste of the Year win and delivered a performance at the ceremony. Fellow Grenadian artistes Lil Kerry and Muddy were also in attendance, representing the island’s vibrant Jab culture.

Legendary calypsonian Calypso Rose was among four special honourees, alongside Shyne, Patra and Alan Cavé, recognised for their contributions to Caribbean music and culture.

Jamaican artistes 450, who performed during the ceremony, Ayetian, Jamal and Najeeriii were also in attendance, alongside Trinibad stars Kman, Medz Boss and Plumpy Boss, who were spotted together at the event as they continue on their path of peace following past rivalries.