Minister of entertainment Olivia Babsy Grange said the Reggae Month Irie FM Music Awards has re-emerged at a time when a number of calls are being made for greater recognition of the genre.

The reggae music award ceremony was staged on the grounds of Irie FM, in Ocho Rios, St. Ann, last night, with 21 Jamaican entertainers being recognised for their work.

Ms. Grange said the calls for respect can now have greater support with the genre being recognized in Jamaica, where reggae originated.

She said the decision to return with the music award, after a decade long hiatus, has demonstrated Irie FM’s commitment to the reggae music industry.

Meantime, last night’s ceremony saw reggae icon Marcia Griffiths, being bestowed the living legend award, in recognition of her contribution to the genre, for over 50 years.

Among the winners, were Masicka and Spice, who copped the Male and Female DJ of the Year Award, respectively.

Masicka’s album 438 was awarded Album of the Year and 10-Tik’s “Roll Deep” was awarded Song of the Year.