Author: Antoine Chung

In a moment of immense recognition, international dancehall icon Sean Paul was conferred with the Doctor of Letters Honoris Causa by the University of Technology, Jamaica (UTech) last Friday, marking a significant milestone in his celebrated career.

This prestigious award honored his exceptional contributions to music and his pivotal role in nation-building, further solidifying his status as one of dancehall’s most influential artists.

“Sean Paul’s success with his albums and live performances has earned him global acclaim, making him the first Jamaican artist to perform in countries like Kazakhstan and Madagascar, in addition to more than 100 other nations,” UTech stated.

Before achieving worldwide fame, Sean Paul, whose full name is Sean Paul Francis Henriques, was a student at UTech when it was known as the College of Arts, Science and Technology. He pursued studies in hospitality and tourism management but ultimately made the bold decision to leave his studies to follow his passion for music. This unorthodox path led him to become one of Jamaica’s most decorated musicians, boasting accolades such as a Grammy, a BET Award, and a Soul Train Award.

Returning to his alma mater to accept the honor, Sean Paul expressed a deep sense of pride and joy.

“This is a unique kind of pride, especially because I had the chance to share my journey and insights with the class of 2024,” he told THE STAR in an interview.

“The campus has evolved tremendously since I last visited, and it’s inspiring to see how UTech continues to produce individuals who will drive positive change,” he added.

In his address, Sean Paul reflected on his evolving dreams and shared valuable advice with the graduates, urging them to embrace change and take bold steps toward their goals.

“My message to the class of 2024 is simple: Don’t fear dreaming big, adapt to changes, and remember that change is inevitable,” he said. Despite not completing his degree, he credited UTech with instilling the discipline and strong work ethic that became the foundation of his success in music.

“At that time, I was like a blank canvas, unsure of what the final painting of my life would look like or where the future would lead me. But I remained committed to putting in my best effort, no matter the outcome,” Sean Paul shared.

Drawing from his experiences in the competitive music industry, he encouraged graduates to remain steadfast in the face of challenges. He acknowledged that every career path, including music, is fraught with difficulties and setbacks.

“Someone once told me that I was well-suited to this business, which is filled with egos, disappointments, and broken promises. I didn’t give up, and neither should you,” he urged.

Reflecting further in his interview, the artist emphasized perseverance and resilience as key to overcoming obstacles.

“Keep pushing forward, and remember that brighter days are ahead,” he encouraged.

Dancehall artist Spice is expanding her entrepreneurial ventures with the launch of her first clothing line, Graci Noir.

The brand’s official website went live on Thursday, and Spice marked the occasion with a virtual celebration alongside her three million Instagram followers.

Earlier in the week, Spice debuted a promotional video for the collection, featuring models of all sizes showcasing the stylish pieces.

The Graci Noir line includes a range of apparel such as tracksuits, jumpsuits, bodysuits, tops, t-shirts, and dresses, each uniquely named after popular Jamaican slang phrases.