OJ for Queen of Reggae
Marcia Griffiths will be inducted into the Order of Jamaica (OJ), Jamaica’s fourth-highest honour, for her outstanding contributions to music.
Griffiths moves up the rank from an Order of Distinction (OD), Commander Class, which she was conferred with in 2014.
The singer, who found fame as part of the duo Bob (Andy) and Marcia; as a member of Bob Marley’s I-Three backup singers, and with a long-lasting solo career, has stamped an indelible mark on music. She has earned prime positions on the Billboard charts and has received numerous honours and awards.
Entertainer Wayne Marshall will be inducted into the OD. Speaking with The Sunday Gleaner, Marshall said as a Jamaican who is “ dedicated to the growth and development of” the country, this is a special honour.
“I am beyond proud, [and] really excited to receive this award,” said the Meet the Mitchells patriarch, whose given name is Wayne Mitchell. “It feels good that [through] my work that I’ve put in over the last 20-something years, [the country] has showed me this type of recognition.”
The OD may be conferred upon one who renders outstanding and important services to Jamaica.
Marshall said he is especially proud to have his children witness his induction. “It is awesome for them [my children] to see me receive this type of national award because I think it gives them a drive and a determination. It also makes it a reality for them to see their father achieve something like this. I think it brings it in the realm of possibility for them to achieve one day, and I think it will drive them to want to achieve these heights,” he said.
For years, as a reggae and dancehall artiste, Wayne Marshall focused his talents on music, delivering numerous hits. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Marshall, with the help of his family, including wife, Tami Chin Mitchell, became a mainstay on YouTube with the Meet The Mitchells channel racking up views and subscribers and helping to promote positive family values.
The National Honours and Awards are presented annually on Heroes Day.
