Reggae North Canada INC proudly announces the inaugural Reggae North Music Awards, co-hosted by renowned on-air personality Tony Young—known professionally as Master T—and distinguished radio personality and entrepreneur Elaine ‘ET’ Thompson. This highly anticipated event is set to take place at the Rose Theatre in Brampton, Ontario, on Sunday, September 29, 2024.
Tony Young, originally from Leeds, England, has made significant contributions to the Canadian music scene, especially through his work at MuchMusic. As the co-creator and host of the popular show Da Mix (formerly X-Tendamix), which aired from 1990 to 2001, Master T played a pivotal role in promoting music of Black origin, including hip-hop, R&B, reggae, and house. His impressive career includes interviews with iconic artists such as Madonna, Janet Jackson, Eminem, Mary J. Blige, Backstreet Boys, Spice Girls, Jay-Z, Tupac, and Dr. Dre. Master T also became the face of the MuchMusic Dance Mix compilation CD series, further cementing his influence in the industry.
Master T’s impact on reggae and dancehall in Canada is profound. He has hosted and interviewed top reggae and dancehall stars like Shaggy, Shabba, Capleton, Foxy Brown, Maxi Priest, and Marcia Griffiths. Through his company Fullstedd/Esor Productions, which he founded with his wife Paula, he produced “Master T’s Reggae and Urban Vibes” and the “Duttyology” DVD for international reggae star Sean Paul. Master T remains a sought-after MC, host, and keynote speaker, having conducted major keynotes with Canadian hip-hop icons Kardinal Offishal, Michie Mee, and Maestro Fresh Wes. His accolades include a Toronto Bob Marley Award, a Ghanaian Community Award, and a Mohawk College Alumni of Distinction Award.
“It’s a privilege and honour to show Respect to all the amazing Canadian talent through hosting the first annual Reggae North Awards, said Master T. “I’ve always approached Reggae from an ambassador perspective, especially as a VJ on MuchMusic, with my inaugural shows X-tendamix/Da Mix! So, this is a natural fit in continuing to elevate the Canadian Reggae music scene to higher heights.”
Elaine ‘ET’ Thompson, born in Jamaica and migrating to Canada as a teenager, has an impressive career in radio broadcasting. With decades of experience, she served as a station manager at 105.5 FM and spent 20 years as an on-air personality at various radio stations in Toronto and Jamaica. Thompson co-hosted “Grapevine” on G98.7 FM, Canada’s only Black radio station. Her academic background includes studies at Clarendon College, Ryerson University, Durham College, Humber College, and OREA College.
Thompson’s entrepreneurial spirit led her to become the co-owner of the Falcon Inn in Niagara Falls, Ontario, likely the first black-owned hotel in the region. She balances her roles as a radio host, entrepreneur, real estate broker, and insurance broker. Her transition into real estate and insurance was motivated by a desire to help her community build wealth, recognizing the cultural contributions her community has made globally.
“We are honored to have Elaine Thompson as co-host for our first Reggae North Music Awards,” said a spokesperson for Reggae North Canada INC. “Her extensive background in broadcasting and her deep roots in both the Jamaican and Canadian communities make her the perfect choice to help us celebrate the richness of reggae and dancehall music in Canada.”
The Reggae North Music Awards will be a celebration of reggae and dancehall music in Canada, promising an evening of excitement and authenticity with the presence of Master T and Elaine Thompson. The event will commence at 6 PM, with gates opening at 4 PM. Tickets are available at the Brampton Box Office or online at Bramptononstage.ca. For more information, call 905-874-2800.