By music industry standards, Glen Washington is a late bloomer. He broke through in 1999, after nearly 20 years in the business as a drummer and singer.
In September, the veteran artist was awarded two Grammy certificates during the Excellence in Music Ceremony, which took place in Kingston, Jamaica at the Courtleigh Auditorium. Washington was recognized for collaborating with Capleton on “Jah Work it Out,” a song from The Prophet’s “Still Blazin” album which was nominated for a Best Reggae Album Grammy Award in 2003.
His other certificate was for teaming with Third World on “Rebel Rock Session,” which is from the band’s 2003 album, “Ain’t Giving Up” which earned a Grammy nomination for Best Reggae Album the following year.
“I don’t mind getting awards because I work hard for it. A lotta things people don’t even know, like dat song with Capleton, is me write it,” said Washington.
Previously known as the Grammy Certificates Ceremony, the Excellence in Music Ceremony was held for the third time in Jamaica. It is staged by Back 2 Da Future Music Ltd., a company founded and operated by Englishman Kennedy Mensah.
In September, Washington signed with Donsome Records, a company based in Atlanta, Georgia to book him for shows and manage movement of his music. Donsome Records is owned by Jamaican Adrian Hanson, whom he has known for many years. Through this arrangement, Washington is eager to break into uncharted territory such as Australia, New Zealand and China.
After years of releasing songs, Washington finally hit the charts in 1999 with “Brother to Brother,” a hit-laden album produced by Clement Dodd. His follow-up songs include the popular “Kindness for Weakness” and “Rise and Shine.”
