Five-year-old Nahbi Reign — daughter of Jamaican artist I-Octane — has officially become the youngest producer credited on a nomination in International Reggae & World Music Awards (IRAWMA) history. Her work on the song “Opportunist” by I-Octane featuring ShaneO has earned nominations for Best Song and Best Music Video at the 2026 IRAWMAs, placing her among the industry’s most celebrated creatives — before even entering primary school.
According to I-Octane, Nahbi’s role in the production process was far more than symbolic. The young prodigy actively guided the song’s musical direction, demonstrating an intuitive understanding of melody and structure that surprised even her veteran father.
“She’s telling me that the melody has to be repetitive. She’s 5 years old and schooling you on that! When I sing it she says, ‘Okay, I like that,’” Octane shared proudly.
Nahbi also had a decisive hand in selecting collaborator ShaneO. After reviewing multiple beat options, ShaneO approved the one she favored — sealing her influence on the final record.
While she is not yet focused on performing, Nahbi is already thinking like a producer. In her own words, she is currently “learning to make my own beats,” with dreams of one day having her father — or even dancehall star Shenseea — record over her productions.
Despite the historic recognition, Nahbi’s reaction to her first major award nomination reflects the innocence of her age.
Asked how it feels, she said simply:
“I feel happy. I don’t know what it is (laughs) but I am happy.”
She learned of the nomination in the most relatable way possible — from her mother after a regular day at school.
“My mom told me after school today.”
I-Octane believes music is undoubtedly part of his daughter’s future, whether she ultimately chooses producing, performing, or both. For now, he is allowing her talent to develop naturally, guided by curiosity and joy rather than pressure.
The song is a single from I-Octane seventh studio album, God and I, which peaked at No. 1 on the U.S. Reggae iTunes Chart.
Vybz Kartel leads the nominations for the 43rd International Reggae And World Music Awards (IRAWMA) with 11 nods, following a strong 2025 that included 23 sold-out shows in major cities in North America, Europe and the Caribbean. His nominations include Entertainer of the Year, Recording Artiste of the Year, Best Song for God Is The Greatest, Best Album for Heart & Soul, and Best Crossover Entertainer.
Sean Paul received seven nominations, while Lila Iké earned five, including recognition for her Grammy nominated album Treasure Self Love. Winners will be determined by online voting, which closes May 5. The ceremony takes place May 17 at the Lauderhill Performing Arts Center in Florida.
Founded in 1982 by Ephraim Martin, this year IRAWMA will issue special awards will honor industry figures George Crooks and Howard Chung of VP Records. Meanwhile, reggae legend Burning Spear will receive the 2026 Lifetime Achievement Award. Now 80 and still active, he remains widely celebrated internationally for his role—alongside Bob Marley, Peter Tosh, and Bunny Wailer—in making roots reggae a global force, highlighted by his classic 1975 album Marcus Garvey.
