Reggae songstress Timeka Marshall is among the list of eight nominees for Best New Artist (Female) in the Excellence In Music and Entertainment (EME) Awards Jamaica. According to the nominations criteria the award is given to the artist whose overall impact during the eligibility year establishes her public identity.

Timeka, who released several singles in 2009 including Hush on the Indiscretions riddim and Feel Fah featuring Busy Signal, was surprised but thrilled about her nomination. “I am happy to be recognised for something that I am passionate about. I am not going to be like others and say I am happy just to be nominated, winning would make me that much more delighted,” laughed  the elated Guyanese songbird.

The other nominees in this category are Stream, Gaza Indu, Phyllisia, Raine Seville, Sophia Squire, Gaza Kim and Lisa Hype.

The prestigious awards show is set for Thursday, February 4, in the Gardens of the Jamaica Pegasus Hotel in Kingston.

The EME Awards is the brain child of popular Jamaican radio personality Richard ‘Richie B’ Burgess. He created the show to honour the players in the local music industry, both past and present, for their hard work in creating and maintaining excellence within the nation’s rich musical culture.

Since its humble beginnings in 2005, the EME Awards has grown to become one of the most eagerly anticipated events on the Jamaican entertainment calendar, due primarily, to its high production standards. The EME Awards has garnered unwavering support and popularity through the years and has attracted coverage from both the local and international media. Last year, the presence of America’s BETJ Channel provided quite a boost for the EMEs and their repeat airing of the event has added to the excitement internationally. 

Over 85% of the awardees were in attendance for both the 2008 and 2009 stagings and the organizers hope to improve on that this year. According to the organisers “this is a clear indication of the respect the industry has for this event and 2010 promises to be even bigger and better”.