Machel Montano, the Trinidadian soca star, will be awarded the Key to the City of Kingston on Sunday.
On Sunday, Jamaica will commemorate 61 years of independence, and Montano will be honored.
The Independence Grand Gala will be a crucial point in the country’s independence celebrations.
Members of the Kingston and St Andrew Municipal Corporation (KSAMC) unanimously agreed to honor Montano, as requested by Education Minister Olivia “Babsy” Grange.
“Be it resolved that the Key to the City of Kingston be conferred on Mr Machel Jesus Montano, in recognition of his sterling, awesome, and iconic career in music, which has positively influenced many adoring fans across the Caribbean and the world, including many Jamaicans who continue to enjoy his enduring legacy,” the council said in a resolution passed.
It was introduced by Government councillor Susan Senior and seconded by councillor Kari Douglas, both of whom were convinced of its viability, particularly those who had witnessed Montano’s local performances.
“You just want to jump when you hear soca music.” Soca is sweet… together we unite in a special way for a special moment,” she remarked, praising Montano’s courtesy, support, and love of music.
Meanwhile, Andrew Swaby, the head of the main Opposition People’s National Party (PNP) caucus in the council, and fellow PNP councillor Audrey Smith-Facey both admitted that they saw nothing wrong with Montano being recognized for his achievements as a soca star, but were concerned about how approvals were granted so late.
“I was a soca queen, and Montana was my favorite soca person,” she added. “It’s sad to know that while we try to operate in a professional manner, which I believe they should honor, they just chuck this on us at the last minute.”