Fresh off receiving the prestigious 2025 Nina Simone Artistic Excellence Award, as well as a certificate of Congressional recognition from Congresswoman Yvette Clarke and a New York Legislative Resolution by State Senator Kevin S. Parker, Saint Lucian singer Michael Robinson is still relishing the moment.
The honours were presented in New York last month at the Young, Gifted, and Black Entrepreneurial Awards, which celebrated its 20th anniversary this year. The event, held at Terrace on the Park in Queens, recognised outstanding contributions across various industries.
As Robinson marked another milestone last week—his birthday—he reflected on the journey leading up to this achievement.
“I have been working with my Jamaican publicist, Shauna from Down to Earth Productions for quite some time now and last year, she hinted that she had some amazing news for me but wouldn’t reveal it just yet.
“Then in January, I received an email from Carl Grey of the Young, Gifted, and Black Awards, informing me that I had been nominated for the 2025 Nina Simone Artistic Excellence Award in R&B Fusion, Caribbean and Soul Music, and I was like, ‘wow’,” Robinson told St. Lucia Times.
The recognition, he said, holds deep meaning, particularly because of Nina Simone’s legacy.
“Especially knowing who Nina Simone was—an incredible musician and composer. What stands out to me is her role as a powerful civil rights activist. She fearlessly advocated for the black community and gave a voice to those who couldn’t speak up,” he said.
Receiving the congressional recognition and legislative resolution, however, was a complete surprise.
“I did not know I was also receiving those recognitions, but when I did, I was, like, ‘wow, I’m really onto something’.”
For Robinson, the award serves as a powerful motivator to keep pushing forward, even in moments of doubt.
“Even though there are times when I feel like, you know, the genre is overlooked in Saint Lucia. But this is a reminder that people beyond our shores are paying attention to my work, so that in itself just kind of motivates me every single day,” the talented performer said.
He hopes this recognition can inspire up-and-coming Saint Lucian artists to stay committed to their craft and push the island’s music forward.
Looking ahead, Robinson believes 2025 will be an exciting year both personally and professionally. In January, he released his latest single, Calling, now available on streaming platforms. He is also working on new music, collaborating with talented artists from Saint Lucia, the region, and beyond.
“I have been in studio collaborating with some incredible, talented musicians and writers from Saint Lucia and also regionally and internationally, and I am really excited to release more music soon and to get back on stage to perform for the fans,” he said.
Congratulations 🎼🎤