MOLIY Breaks Ground as First Ghanaian Winner at Caribbean Music Awards 2026

Ghanaian artist MOLIY has etched her name into music history as the first Ghanaian to win at the Caribbean Music Awards, claiming dual honours at the fourth annual ceremony held in Trinidad and Tobago. The breakthrough comes as African music continues to gain momentum across Caribbean territories, signalling a significant shift in the region's cultural landscape.

MOLIY secured Dancehall Song of the Year for her remix of "Shake It to the Max (FLY)," which features Jamaican artists Silent Addy, Skillibeng and Shenseea. She also took home Dancehall Collaboration of the Year for the same track. Speaking at the ceremony, held on 19 September at the National Academy for the Performing Arts (NAPA) in Port of Spain, MOLIY expressed her gratitude for the recognition and the international doors the remix has opened.

"When I wrote this song, I had no idea the doors it would open for me. I had no idea I would be welcomed into this amazing community," MOLIY said whilst accepting her award in person. The Ghanaian star emphasised her growing bond with Caribbean audiences and hinted at expanded plans in the region, declaring that listeners should expect to see more of her work in Caribbean markets going forward.

Why This Matters for Ghana

MOLIY's victory represents a watershed moment for Ghana's music industry on the international stage. Whilst Ghanaian musicians have long gained recognition in African and global markets, direct recognition at major Caribbean award ceremonies has been limited. This breakthrough underscores the increasing crossover appeal of Ghanaian artists, particularly those working in genres that resonate across cultures—in this case, dancehall, a genre with deep Caribbean roots.

The success of the "Shake It to the Max (FLY)" remix also demonstrates the power of strategic collaborations with Caribbean artists. By partnering with established Jamaican talents, MOLIY has positioned herself within a regional ecosystem where African and Caribbean sounds are converging. For Ghana's creative economy, this signals new opportunities for local artists to build international profiles and generate revenue streams beyond traditional markets.

Furthermore, MOLIY's representation of Ghana at a major Caribbean awards ceremony elevates the country's cultural standing in a region increasingly connected through music and digital platforms. As Caribbean audiences encounter Ghanaian music more frequently, it opens pathways for tourism, cultural exchange and business partnerships.

The Ceremony and Broader Recognition

The 2026 Caribbean Music Awards, held for the first time in Trinidad and Tobago, drew approximately 100 international artists and premiered globally on 25 October. Lady Lava from Trinidad and Tobago emerged as the night's biggest winner with four awards, whilst Jamaican dancehall legend Patra received a Lifetime Achievement Honor. Former Belizean politician and rapper Shyne was also recognised with a Global Ambassador Honor.

The ceremony, broadcast on the Caribbean Music Awards YouTube channel and distributed through TRACE+ and regional television partners, highlighted the growing influence and commercial viability of Caribbean music genres including soca, chutney soca, dancehall and bouyon. MOLIY's inclusion and success within this framework demonstrates that African artists can compete effectively at regional Caribbean music celebrations, provided they produce work that speaks to Caribbean sensibilities.

As MOLIY continues to build momentum internationally, her historic win may inspire other Ghanaian musicians to pursue similar regional opportunities, further strengthening the creative ties between West Africa and the Caribbean.