In celebrating musical excellence, the University of the West Indies (UWI) is set to confer honorary degrees upon two distinguished artists whose contributions to the world of music have left an indelible mark. Reggae legend Beres Hammond and R&B songstress Heather Headley will be recognised for their outstanding achievements and profound impact on the global music scene.
Beres Hammond, affectionately known as the Cudjoe, the "King of Lovers Rock," has been a pivotal figure in reggae music for over four decades. Born in Annotto Bay, Jamaica, on August 28, 1955, Hammond's journey in music began at a young age, and his soulful, melodious voice soon became a hallmark of his sound. He recorded his first song for legendary producer Clancy Eccles, "Wonderer." Beres remembers only getting a Kola Champagne soft drink for his efforts.
During the 1970s and 1980s, Beres Hammond gained recognition for his ballads. "Got to Get Away" was one of his popular songs produced by Willie Lindo for the Aquarius label, and "I'm in Love" was another hit produced by Joe Gibbs. In the 1980s, he achieved his first reggae hit with the timeless classic "What One Dance Can Do", which was produced by Willie Lindo.
The nineties saw him shifting to reggae and lover rock, resulting in many classic reggae hits resonating with audiences worldwide. Songs like "Tempted to Touch", "Putting Up Resistance," "Rockaway," and "What One Dance Can Do" have become anthems that transcend generations. Hammond's ability to infuse his music with themes of love, unity, and social consciousness has made him a revered figure in the reggae genre.
Beyond his chart-topping success, Hammond's dedication to preserving the essence of reggae and its cultural roots has earned him widespread respect. He has consistently used his platform to advocate for social justice and address pressing issues facing Jamaica and the wider Caribbean. Hammond recently received the Lifetime Achievement Award at the Caribbean Music Awards in New York.
Heather Headley, born on October 5, 1974, in Barataria, Trinidad and Tobago, and raised in the United States, is a powerhouse in the world of R&B and Broadway. Her incredible vocal range and stage presence have garnered acclaim from critics and fans alike.
Headley's journey to stardom began with her debut album, "This is Who I Am", in 2002, which featured the chart-topping single "He Is."
In 2003, she received the Soul Train Lady of Soul Award for R&B/Soul Album of the Year - Solo for "This Is Who I Am" and the Soul Train Lady of Soul Award for Best R&B/Soul or Rap New Artist - Solo for "He Is." She was nominated for Best R&B/Soul Single - Solo for "He Is." In 2004, she was nominated for two Grammy Awards: Best New Artist and Best Female R&B Vocal Performance for "I Wish I Wasn't."
Her subsequent album, "In My Mind," further solidified her status as a bonafide R&B Queen.
Aside from her success in the music industry, Heather Headley has also significantly impacted the theatre world. She made her Broadway debut in the role of Nala in Disney's "The Lion King" and later starred as the title character in "Aida," earning a Tony Award for Best Actress in a Musical. Her versatility as an artist has allowed her to seamlessly transition between music and theatre, leaving an indelible mark in both.
Beres Hammond and Heather Headley represent the epitome of musical excellence in their respective genres. Their ability to touch the hearts of listeners with their soul-stirring melodies and socially conscious lyrics has left an enduring legacy in the world of music.
As they prepare to receive honorary degrees from the University of the West Indies, it is a recognition of their remarkable careers and a celebration of their unwavering commitment to Caribbean and black culture and the power of music to inspire change and unite people from all walks of life. These two music icons continue to be shining examples of the enduring impact of Caribbean talent on the global stage, and their contributions will be celebrated for generations to come.