Gramps gets Governor General’s Award

Multi-award-winning reggae artiste Gramps Morgan has been honoured with the 2024 Governor General's Diaspora Achievement Awards at the 10th Biennial Diaspora Conference in Montego Bay, St James, on Wednesday.

The People Like You singer, who is a member of the famed Morgan's Heritage clan, was recognised for his commitment to philanthropy.

" I am so humbled and honoured to have received this award from the governor general. It truly is a testament of hard-work. There are many awards [that] I've received, and especially throughout the music industry, but this one is very special to me because I'm recognised for the works that [often] go unseen," he said.

"I'm thankful that the governor general and his team are seeing the work that I'm doing as a philanthropist, as my intent is to be a role model and in a positive light, not by purpose or plan, but by just being a good person overall," Gramps added.

The Governor-General's Diaspora Achievement Awards recognise persons who have demonstrated active and significant service towards the development of their community of residence and Jamaica.

Gramps was presented in the special awardee category. In the citation read by MC Fae Ellington, Roy 'Gramps' Morgan was described as a global personality, award-winning musician and philanthropist.

" As a member of Morgan Heritage, Gramps has promoted unity, love and social justice. His song, People Like You, resonates globally with its message of gratitude. Gramps' philanthropy focuses on healthcare, education and community development. He provides scholarships for disadvantaged youth, supports disaster relief efforts in the Caribbean and has contributed significantly to a healthcare facility in St Ann," the citation read.

Gramps has been involved in the construction of the Mary Issa Health Centre in St Ann. The facility, which is being built by the Issa Trust Foundation, will provide give free access to children and adolescents in the area.

" His effo rts receive the core values of the Governor-General's programme for excellence," the citation read.

Meanwhile, Gramps acknowledged that while he received the award, his achievements in any endeavour were the result of a dedicated team.

"I am forever grateful to my team, globally, that sees the vision of the Gramps Morgan experience. Thank you to my parents, may they rest in eternal peace, The Morgan Heritage family - rest in peace brother Peetah Morgan - to my wife and children, who have been so patient with me over all these years; my band, who over the years have been on the mission with me, and have made so many sacrifices to do the mission; to my label Halo Entertainment, Team Dada Son, Contractor Music Marketing and all who have inspired me to be the man that I am today, thank you!" he said.