Nesbeth honoured with billboard in South St Andrew

Reggae artiste Nesbeth is overjoyed that a billboard paying homage to him has been erected in South St Andrew while he is around to appreciate it.

"Where I am from, we are used to seeing famous and infamous people's pictures painted on the wall, usually after they've passed and mainly by the gun, with words such as 'Gone to soon' or 'RIP'. To be praised as such an icon while I am alive is a blessing and an honoured," Nesbeth told THE STAR.

A billboard showing his picture, along with the words, 'South St Andrew salutes Nesbeth, Excellence in arts and music' was erected last week at the Collie Smith Drive roundabout in the community. Member of Parliament (MP) for the South St Andrew constituency and Leader of the Opposition, Mark Golding, responded to a post from Nesbeth on social media about the honour.

"Keep up the hard and positive work! You've inspired many in our constituency to 'Dream' big!" Golding said, alluding to the entertainer's breakout hit, My Dream.

Reflecting on the song, Nesbeth told THE STA R, " My Dream has impacted my life in a very positive way. As such, my fanbase has increased tremendously. The My Dream World Tour of 2023 took me to Africa, Kenya specifically, for the first time, where I performed for the people of the Motherland. The song has broadened my horizon and increased my presence worldwide."

Released in October 2015, My Dream became an instant hit among reggae fans and charted globally, winning the JaRIA and the IRAWMA awards for Song of the Year.

Nesbeth, who is currently overseas, has not yet seen the actual billboard, but he is looking forward to visiting the community as soon as he returns to Jamaica.

"When I was told that the community would be honouring me in this way, I felt overwhelmed to the point that I was lost for words. I am humbled by this recognition. I must say a heartfelt thank you to the opposition leader of Jamaica and MP Mark Golding and his team for highlighting the achievement of a youth from the ghetto who had nothing but a 'dream', but was determined to put in the work to make it happen. Thanks also to the people of South St Andrew and all of Jamaica who have and continue to support my music so that my talent can be of such great influence and impact," he shared.

Nesbeth pledged to continue to give Jamaica and the world "timeless, positive and uplifting music".