Queen of Reggae, Marcia Griffiths, was conferred the Honorary Degree of Doctor of Letters from The University of the West Indies (UWI), Mona campus, at the institution’s graduation ceremony on Saturday afternoon.
“I am truly, honestly thankful that God has preserved me [so] that I could be here, 61 years after starting out as a young girl [in music]. I usually say that God has preserved me, but what would I be without the support of everyone of you here... Thank you so much!” Griffiths shared in her response to the honour, much to the applause of the graduates and attendees, whom she referred to as her family.
Born and raised in West Kingston, Griffiths has shaped the sound and global reach of reggae for more than six decades through her powerful voice, timeless hits and pioneering role as a woman in the industry. She began singing professionally in 1964 with the Byron Lee and the Dragonaires band.
Griffiths rose to international prominence as a member of the iconic I-Threes, supporting Bob Marley and the Wailers on classic albums including Natty Dread, Rastaman Vibration and Exodus, while also building a successful solo career.
With 19 solo albums, numerous collaborations and global anthems such as Electric Boogie, her influence spans generations and continents.
Griffiths’ latest honour from UWI adds to an already distinguished list of national accolades, reinforcing her standing as a cultural ambassador, trailblazer and enduring symbol of reggae excellence.
In 2023, she was upgraded from the Order of Distinction (Commander Class) to the Order of Jamaica in recognition of her outstanding contributions to music. The honorary doctorate places her alongside her lifelong friend Beres Hammond, who received the same distinction from UWI in 2023.
Leaving a message for the graduates, Dr Griffiths said, “This is not the end. This is just the beginning.... All your dreams and your aspirations that you have, go for it, claim it, reach for the stars.”
In a fitting close to her address, the Queen of Reggae delivered an a cappella rendition of her hit song, Dreamland, with graduates joining in as they sang along.