PORT OF SPAIN, Trinidad & Tobago — The Caribbean Music Awards (CMA) is set to make history in 2026 as the prestigious celebration heads to Trinidad & Tobago for the very first time.
The awards ceremony will take place on Saturday, September 19, 2026, at the National Academy for the Performing Arts (NAPA) in Port of Spain.
The ceremony forms part of the Caribbean Elite Weekend Experience, scheduled for September 18–20, which promises three days of music, culture, networking, and entertainment, bringing together artists, producers, DJs, executives, influencers, and fans from across the region and the diaspora.
Organizers say the move to Trinidad & Tobago reflects the Awards’ mission of celebrating the diversity and global influence of Caribbean music.
From Soca, Dancehall, and Reggae to Bouyon, Konpa, Dennery Segment, Zess, Chutney Soca, Jab, French Caribbean music, Latin Caribbean music and Caribbean Fusion, this year’s event aims to showcase the full spectrum of the region’s musical excellence.
Lady Lava Leads the Field
Leading all nominees is Trinidad & Tobago’s own Lady Lava, who tops the 2026 nominations with an impressive nine nominations, making her one of the biggest stories heading into awards season.
Her nominations include:
- People’s Choice
- Soca Performer of the Year
- Female Soca Artist of the Year
- Zess Artist of the Year
- Soca Impact Award
- Chutney Soca Song of the Year (“Cya Pick” with Ravi B)
- Chutney Soca Song of the Year (“Pepper Vine” with Machel Montano, DJ Private Ryan, Drupatee & Jus Now)
- Zess Song of the Year (“Bob the Builder”)
- Zess Song of the Year (“Send It Up” with Lola Doll & Shawn Storm)
Close behind are Ayetian, Machel Montano, and V’ghn, who each earned seven nominations.
Dancehall heavyweights Shenseea and Skillibeng secured six nominations each, while Masicka, Popcaan, Valiant, Vybz Kartel, and Yung Bredda each received five nominations.
“Shake It to the Max (Fly) Remix” Dominates
One of the year’s biggest breakout records, “Shake It to the Max (Fly) Remix” by Moliy, Skillibeng, Shenseea, and Silent Addy, emerged as the most nominated song of the year, earning three nominations and solidifying its status as one of the Caribbean’s defining hits of 2026.
More Than 250 Nominees Across 40+ Categories
This year’s Caribbean Music Awards features more than 250 nominees competing across over 40 categories, reflecting the remarkable growth and diversity of Caribbean music.
Among the newly introduced categories are:
- Dennery Artist of the Year
- Dennery Song of the Year
- Zess Song of the Year
- Konpa Song of the Year
- Chutney Soca Artist of the Year
- Chutney Soca Song of the Year
- Jab Artist of the Year
- Jab Song of the Year
- French Caribbean Song of the Year
The additions further expand recognition for genres and cultures that continue to shape the Caribbean’s musical identity.
Fans Have the Final Say
Public voting officially opened on June 10 and remains open until August 10, giving fans worldwide the opportunity to support their favorite artists, songs, DJs, festivals, and cultural contributors.
Voting is available now through the official Caribbean Music Awards website.
One Caribbean, One Celebration
With Trinidad & Tobago preparing to host the event for the first time, organizers are promising an unforgettable celebration of Caribbean excellence.
The 2026 Caribbean Music Awards is expected to bring together some of the biggest names in Caribbean entertainment for a weekend that celebrates the sounds, cultures, and creative talent that continue to influence music around the world.
As anticipation builds, all eyes will be on Port of Spain this September as the Caribbean comes together for one stage, one weekend, and one unforgettable celebration of its music and culture.
