Ky-Mani Marley Honoured At ‘Key To The Region’ Ceremony In Florida

Ky-Mani Marley

Multifaceted entertainer Ky-Mani Marley is the first to admit that he’s better at singing than speaking, but he did find words of gratitude while being honored at a ‘Key to the Region’ ceremony in Florida on Friday. 

The singer and actor received a standing ovation as he was presented with the plaque from the gala’s founder, Tamarac Commissioner Marlon Bolton. 

“This is my first black-tie event, so I’m overwhelmed,” Marley’s first words were. “I’m honoured to be here to be with you, beautiful people, to share such a beautiful moment. I’ve always dedicated my life to be able to bring smiles to people’s faces, and sometimes, some people say this as a cliché, but for me, that is what drives me; that is the fuel to my fire. To be here tonight, to be recognised for such a prestigious award is very humbling.”

The ‘Key to the Region’ award is bestowed upon individuals or entities that have made significant contributions to their community, demonstrating exceptional leadership, dedication, and commitment to public service. Marley’s “tireless efforts in promoting unity, love, and social justice”, as well as his “charitable initiatives, including the Ky-mani Marley Foundation” made him one of two recipients – the other being media personality and attorney Khadine ‘Miss Kitty’ Wilkinson. 

Ky-Mani Marley joined by several elected officials across South Florida in receiving the ‘Key to the Region’ award on Friday

Pulling out a brief speech, the Get High singer expressed thanks for the consideration, underscoring that his all-rounded endeavours are rooted in positively impact the world.

“This moment celebrates our community, culture and unity,” he said. “This key is not just an award, but a commitment to preserving our heritage and building a brighter future… Let’s continue to work together in building a brighter future… 

“On the drive here, I thought about that there was someone that sat in an office somewhere and had the idea that I was deserving of this award, and whoever that is, I am so grateful and thankful for this moment. For me, being able to be that change that we want to see is the driving force for me, so I thank you.”

Bolton affirmed Marley earning the honour. 

“A lot of people asked, ‘Why this Marley?’, and I asked them, ‘Why not this Marley?’ because he is the epitome of amazing, the epitome of talented and the epitome of legendary,” he said. “It’s not a competition but I believe you are the star of your family, and we appreciate you in South Florida. We welcome you, we love you and we cherish you. We cherish your work and we know you’re going far – farther than any other voice can go.”

After a few photos with his new accolade, Marley displayed that “me can sing better than me can talk” in a mini set of an upcoming record preaching world peace, and two records from his iconic father Bob Marley. 

Starting his music career in the mid-90s, the Falmouth native debuted with Unnecessary Badness which caught the attention of esteemed producer Clifton Dillon. The two would go on to work together on several songs, including Dear Dad which would later become the name of his controversial book. The publication was advertised as the “story the Marley family apparently didn’t want you to know”.

He would later branch out into acting, curating an impressive roster of critically-acclaimed films like the 2002 classic Shottas, alongside peer Spragga Benz, and One Love (2003) with singer Cherine Anderson. 

Marley and his brothers Ziggy, Stephen, Julian and Damian are set to go on ‘The Legacy Tour’ in September.