KINGSTON, Jamaica – It’s now Dr. Beres Hammond. The king of lovers rock reggae was formally conferred with an Honorary Diploma of Docs of Letters right here on November 4 on the College of the West Indies’ Mona campus.
Dr. Beres Hammond
Hammond was given his instrument by UWI chancellor Robert Bermudez, at which era the complete room of graduates erupted in applause.
The singer instructed the viewers about his early years eager to be a reggae artist in St. Mary parish, japanese Jamaica. These ambitions had been discouraged by his father however inspired by his mom. Hammond left rural Jamaica for the capital, Kingston the place he pursued his dream.
He sang the opening line to his 2000 hit single, Rockaway, and was joined in music by the graduates. Greater than 3,500 college students graduated from the UWI’s Mona campus on November 3-4.
In 2013, Hammond obtained the Order of Jamaica, the nation’s fourth-highest award, for his contribution to its music trade.
Prime Minister Andrew Holness
Jamaica’s prime minister, Andrew Holness, acknowledged Hammond’s newest accolade.
“Congratulations to the legendary Reggae icon, Beres Hammond, on being awarded an Honorary Physician of Letters by the College of the West Indies. Beres’ soulful voice, basic message and theme could possibly be thought of the soundtrack for a lot of Jamaican moments. His outstanding profession, spanning over 5 many years, has not solely touched the hearts of Jamaicans however has additionally gained him immense worldwide acclaim. I’m myself an enormous Beres fan and Jamaica is so blessed to have him as a nationwide treasure. We sit up for extra of Beres’ timeless melodies that proceed to resonate with folks across the globe,” stated Holness.
Among the many different Jamaican recipients of honorary levels had been Audrey Marks, Jamaica’s Ambassador to Washington. Plus, Lascelles Chin, who was awarded posthumously.
Barbadian soca star Alison Hinds, Trinidad-born singer/actress Heather Headley and calypsonian Sir Leroy “King Brief Shirt” Emanuel from Antigua, additionally obtained honorary doctorates from the UWI this 12 months.
