Tarrus Riley has been presented with the Marcus Garvey Award, in recognition of his keeping the philosophy of the famous Jamaican alive in his songs. The prize was presented to him at the annual ceremony of the UNIA (Universal Negro Improvement Association, founded by Garvey in 1914), held on 17 August at Devon House in Kingston.
"Tonight, we pay tribute to a young man who, through his music, carries on Marcus Garvey's tradition of teaching and inspiring, by keeping hope alive." With these words from Tommy Cowan, Tarrus Riley was invited onto the stage to receive his award.
A multiple award winner, the son of Jimmy Riley has lifted several such statuettes. But he made clear that this Marcus Garvey Award was the one that meant the most to him: "'The Philosophy and Opinions' written by Marcus Garvey is the best book ever written by man. I would like to thank Marcus Garvey for his teachings. Without them, I would be lost in a world of confusion."
Words spoken in front of dozens of guests including Prime Minister Bruce Golding, and of course his mentor and producer Dean Fraser. Later in the evening he performed Shaka Zulu Pickeny, after Bongo Herman and Sparrow Martin (Jamaica All Stars) came up on stage.
Nine other awards were presented that evening, in fields as varied as the arts, agriculture, journalism, education, commerce, industry and social service.