Mr. Ridge Dominates: Back-to-Back Wins as Bouyon Artist of the Year at Caribbean Music Awards
Bouyon music proudly claimed its spotlight at the third annual Caribbean Music Awards in New York on August 28. 2025, where Dominican trailblazer Mr. Ridge was awarded Bouyon Artist of the Year for the second time. His victory not only celebrates his artistry but also cements his role in the genre’s evolution and global reach. This is only the second year the Bouyon category has been featured at the awards, making the back-to-back win even more significant.
Mr. Ridge is hailed as the inventor of Bouyon’s sub-genre “Nasty Business”, which has produced a wave of chart-topping hits including “B.D.Y.M.M” by Dirty Dawg Pudaz (also a CMA nominee), “She Want a Ah” by Mr. Ridge, and “F.Y.M” by Mr. Ridge and Problem Child. His innovative sound continues to push boundaries, inspiring a new generation of Bouyon artists.
When asked how it felt to secure the title again, Mr. Ridge expressed gratitude and pride:
“To secure this title for the second time is an honour beyond words. For me personally, it’s a reminder that hard work, consistency, and staying true to Bouyon pays off. For Bouyon music, it shows that the genre is not just alive, it’s thriving, gaining recognition on international stages, and connecting with more people every year.”
Bouyon’s popularity has surged globally, thanks in part to high-energy collaborations with regional heavyweights such as Nailah Blackman and Machel Montano of Trinidad, and Skinny Fabulous of St. Vincent and the Grenadines. The genre has also exploded in the French Antilles bringing Bouyon’s infectious rhythms to new audiences.
On the music’s growth, Mr. Ridge noted:
“Bouyon has been evolving over the years, and I see myself playing a key role in shaping its direction. Locally, I’m making sure the younger generation stays rooted in its authentic sound, while regionally, I’m blending influences and pushing boundaries so that Bouyon can stand proudly alongside other major Caribbean genres like dancehall, soca, and reggae.”
Mr. Ridge’s latest hit, “Speedy Da Bur,” is a craft masterpiece that incorporates masking and humor, showcasing his versatility as a performer. He has also confirmed that a new collaboration with 1T1 of Guadeloupe dropped on September 5, 2025, further cementing Bouyon’s growing influence across the region.
Listen to: Mr. Ridge & 1T1
About the Caribbean Music Awards
The Caribbean Music Awards is an annual celebration recognizing the achievements and cultural contributions of Caribbean artists across genres. The 2025 ceremony, held in New York, highlighted the diversity and global influence of Caribbean music. The event will air live on television on BET on September 12, 2025.