Donovan Germain gets big honour

When legendary producer Donovan Germain steps onto the stage at the second annual Reggae Genealogy Music Festival in South Florida next Sunday, it will be more than an appearance--it will be a crowning moment.

Germain, whose career spans decades of musical mastery, is one of three Jamaican icons receiving Lifetime Achievement awards from the Island SPACE Caribbean Museum. Joining him in this distinguished honour are singer Wayne Wonder and the internationally acclaimed Inner Circle, famously known as the 'Bad Boys of Reggae.'

Adding to the accolades, Germain will receive the 'Key to the City of Plantation' from Mayor Nick Sortal and the 'Key to Broward County' from Commissioners Hazelle Rogers and Alexandra Davis. Despite his incredible achievements, the Grammy-nominated producer remains humble. "It's an awesome feeling," Germain told THE STAR. "I'm really at a loss for words."

Island SPACE president Calibe Thompson explained Germain's impact: "Penthouse Records is synonymous with our favourite hits from the '90s and beyond. He has shaped the careers of countless beloved Jamaican performers." This tradition of honouring legends follows last year's celebration of Miss Pat Chin, Marcia Griffiths, and Cedella Marley.

Born in Whitfield Town, Kingston, Germain's love affair with music began next door to a sound system. Over the years, he built an empire, founding the iconic Penthouse Records studio, which has since recorded more than 280 artistes and created enduring riddims like Champion (1994) and Warriors Don't Cry (1997). His collaborations with stars like Buju Banton, Wayne Wonder, and Marcia Griffiths remain timeless.