Machel Montano Gets Keys to the City of Kingston

Soca superstar Machel Montano has been given the Keys to the City of Kingston in recognition of his sterling iconic music career, which has positively influenced fans across the Caribbean and the world.

The presentation was made by Mayor of Kingston, Senator Councillor Delroy Williams, during the Independence Day Grand Gala celebrations on August 6, in the National Stadium.

It was witnessed by Prime Minister, the Most Hon. Andrew Holness; Minister of Culture, Gender, Entertainment and Sport, Hon. Olivia Grange; representatives from the Kingston and St. Andrew Municipal Corporation (KSAMC) and thousands of spectators who attended the Grand Gala and those online.

In congratulating Mr. Montano, the Prime Minister described him as an Ambassador for Caribbean music and people.

“As Jamaica celebrates its 61st anniversary of Independence, so too is Trinidad. We are a part of a Caribbean family, and one of the things that join us together as one people is music. Music is unity and your music is about the unity of the Caribbean people, and we are so proud of you and it is our great pleasure to have bestowed the Keys to the City of Kingston to you,” he said.

In his response, Mr. Montano expressed gratitude for the recognition.

“I am very proud to say I was born in Trinidad and Tobago but the first time I ever went to school was in Jamaica. I went to school at Mona Basic, my brother went to Hope Valley Experimental, so Machel is not just Trinidadian, proud Caribbean Jamaica, but proud African,” he said, prior to delivering an energetic performance to the delight of his fans.

In the citation, read by Chief Executive Officer, Kingston and St. Andrew Municipal Corporation, Robert Hill, described the Trinidad and Tobago-born as the Caribbean’s leading soca entertainer who is widely regarded as a friend of Jamaica.

Mr. Hill added that Mr. Montano has assisted in many fundraising events to support local charities and community organisations.

“He’s a highly sought-after record producer, songwriter, well known for his fast-pace energy-inducing stage performances and is loved by millions of adoring fans,” he said.

“His early education was right here in Kingston, Jamaica, where he undoubtedly developed his love and appreciation for music culture and the arts.

He is often in Jamaica for top performances and events like Jamaica Carnival or working on artistic collaborations with leading Jamaican artistes and producers with the aim to expand the fusion between dancehall and soca music,” the citation read.

The KSAMC, on Friday, August 4, passed a Resolution to confer the honour on the soca superstar.