Chris Martin dedicates IRAWMA award to mom

Fans of reggae songbird, Christopher Martin, will quickly tell you that one of their favourite songs from the singer is Mama. The infectious, yet heartfelt tune, is a stark reminder of the powerful role mothers play in their children’s lives – and is Martin’s way of celebrating his matriarch.

In recent times, however, Martin has found more than just words and a sweet melody to show his appreciation. This time, a big win at the International Reggae and World Music Awards (IRWMA) show has proven to have the right tune.

Martin was crowned with the Jacob Miller Award for Best Male Vocalist, and the Hon. Shelvin L.M. Hall and Hon L. Priscilla Hall Award for Best Gospel Song during the award show’s festivities at the Lauderhill Performing Arts Center in Fort Lauderdale, Florida on Friday, March 15. The latter of which he is dedicating to his mom, Maxine Martin, who he named as a major inspiration for his award-winning rendition of the song Goodness of God.

“It’s a wonderful feeling. The award for Best Gospel Song means a lot to me and I dedicate that one to my mom because she’s the reason I did that song. So in essence, she’s the reason I received that award,” Martin told The Sunday Gleaner.

“It’s a very big song right now, and a heavily requested one in my set – one of my favourite covers. It’s an interactive award, one the people are heavily involved in. The votes from the masses [are] what seals the victory, so, to be acknowledged by the people is a wonderful thing,” he continued.

His award for Best Male Vocalist is also nothing to snuff at, as Martin has been known for his angelic vocal abilities since winning the popular talent show, ‘Digicel Rising Stars’, in 2005.

“My voice is my substance of survival. It’s the instrument that changed my life, so I have to take the best care of it. Don’t overuse it and take proper care of the vessel that holds the instrument. So I’m taking care of my body,” the Big Deal singer explained.

He went on to say he is working out and eating properly, as well as trying to rest to keep his voice golden.

The IRAWMA awards show, which celebrated its 41st staging this year, has long been a staple in the entertainment space, as organisers seek to honour outstanding talent and contributions to the scene.

For Martin, just being recognised by the institution is motivation within itself. “Of course, awards like these push me to want to work harder. You want to feel the thrill of being nominated each year with the possibility of winning. I’m really happy about being voted Vocalist of the Year and Gospel Song of the Year,” he said.

For his fans, the singer says they can expect a new single called Boasy coming soon, as well as a new body of work.

kenrick.morgan@gleanerjm.com