Several music insiders and Grammy voters are predicting that The Wailers will take home the prestigious title of Best Reggae Album at the 67th Annual Grammy Awards. Their nominated album, “Evolution,” produced by the legendary Emilio Estefan, features prominent artists such as Gramps Morgan, Mykal Rose on three tracks, and Marcia Griffiths. The current lineup includes Aston Barrett Junior, son of original Wailers member, Hector Roots Lewis, and Llamar Brown, also known as Riff Raff.
Multiple Grammy voters have told WMV that they expect reggae’s top trophy to go to The Wailers’, citing Estefan’s renowned production expertise as a significant advantage. Reflecting on the moment, Emilio Estefan Jr. shared on his Instagram 10 weeks ago, “Evolution has just been nominated for a Grammy in the Best Reggae Album category! We’re incredibly honored to see The Wailers’ latest work, produced by the legendary @emilioestefanjr, receive this recognition. This album marks a powerful new chapter in our journey, and we’re beyond grateful to share it with all of you. If you haven’t heard Evolution yet, now’s the perfect time to dive into the Grammy-nominated sound that’s resonating with fans worldwide. Streaming on all platforms—experience Evolution with us!”
Gramps responded in the comment section: “Congrats to you cuz and the Entire Team quality music and production makes a big difference.”
Emilio Estefan is a renowned figure synonymous with success in music, business, and media, celebrated for his pioneering contributions and cultural influence. He has received numerous accolades, including30 GRAMMY nominations and 19 wins along the prestigious U.S. Presidential Medal of Freedom.
He has produced the The Latin GRAMMYs on CBS, The Hispanic Heritage Awards on NBC and Nuestra Navidad on Univision. Recognized as one of the Most Influential Hispanics by Hispanic Business Magazine, Estefan has also been inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame and received educational honors, including honorary doctoral degrees from prominent universities.
Estefan’s contributions extend beyond his own career; he has played a crucial role in producing successful albums for artists like his wife Gloria Estefan, Columbian superstar Shakira, Marc Anthony, Paulina Rubio, Jon Secada, Alejandro Fernandez, Thalia, Carlos Vives, and Jennifer López.
Evolution was released on August 24, 2024 via Crescent Moon Records/ Marshall Sound Inc.
Competing with The Wailers are other prominent names in the reggae and dancehall scene, such as Vybz Kartel, whose EP “Party With Me” represents his first-ever Grammy nomination, and Shenseea, who is also vying for her first win with “Never Gets Late Here.” Shenseea, who was previously nominated for Album of the Year for her collaboration on Kanye West’s critically acclaimed “Donda,” is also featured on Bob Marley’s “One Love: Music Inspired By The Film,” another nominated project this year. This album is unique as it honors Marley’s legacy while showcasing contemporary reggae influences.
The full list of nominees for Best Reggae Album includes:
- “Take It Easy” – Collie Buddz
- “Party With Me” – Vybz Kartel
- “Never Gets Late Here” – Shenseea
- “Bob Marley: One Love – Music Inspired By The Film”
- “Evolution” – The Wailers
Last year Greek producer Alexx Antaeus won Best Reggae Album with his collaboration “Colors Of Royal” with Julian Marley.
Final round of voting ended January 3 and the Grammy Awards ceremony will take place on February 2, 2025, at Los Angeles’ Crypto.com Arena and will be broadcast live on CBS.
