Renowned Ghanaian reggae musician Rocky Dawuni has once again fallen short of his dream to secure a Grammy win, despite earning his fourth nomination in the prestigious awards scheme.
The celebrated artist, who was nominated in the Best Global Music Performance category for his uplifting single 'Rise', was unable to clinch the award at the 66th Annual Grammy Awards, held at the Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles on Sunday, February 2, 2025.
Music lovers in Ghana and beyond had high hopes that this would be Dawuni’s year, given his past nominations in 2015, 2021, and 2023. However, his dream of bringing home Ghana’s first Grammy win was dashed as Bemba Colora by Sheila E., featuring Gloria Estefan and Mimy Succar, took the prize in the competitive category.
The Best Global Music Performance category featured a strong lineup of nominees, including legendary Beninese singer Angélique Kidjo, Pakistani vocalist Arooj Aftab, British multi-instrumentalist Jacob Collier with Anoushka Shankar & Varijashree Venugopal, Japanese composer Masa Takumi featuring Ron Korb, and jazz guitarist Noshir Mody alongside Dale Edward Chung.
Despite the setback, Rocky Dawuni’s repeated recognition at the Grammys underscores his significant impact on the global music scene. His music, which blends reggae, Afrobeat, and highlife with conscious messaging, continues to earn him international acclaim.
Though the disappointment is palpable among his fans, Dawuni’s Grammy journey is a testament to his resilience and contribution to world music. Many believe that with his talent and dedication, it is only a matter of time before he secures the coveted Grammy trophy for Ghana.