‘It feels good’

Reggae artist Mortimer has achieved a significant milestone in his career, securing his first Grammy nomination in the Best Reggae Album category for his project, *From Within*. The announcement, made on Friday, left the artist both humbled and elated. ‘I’m grateful that people see value in what we do. It feels good to know that we’ve made a positive impact,’ Mortimer shared with the *Jamaica Observer*. The album, released in September 2024 through Overstand Entertainment and Easy Star Records, delves into themes of love, self-discovery, and the complexities of human existence, blending traditional reggae with R&B, 80s pop, and other genres. Collaborations with Damian ‘Jr Gong’ Marley, Kabaka Pyramid, and Lila Iké further enriched the project, with Iké also earning a nomination this year for *Treasure Self Love*. Mortimer’s journey into music began in the Seventh-day Adventist Church in Whitehall, St Elizabeth, where he joined the choir at age eight. Reflecting on the evolution of reggae, Mortimer defended the genre’s authenticity, stating, ‘I don’t think it has lost intensity. We’re in a space where some great reggae music is being made.’ The album’s creation was a deeply personal endeavor, aiming to channel his inner thoughts and emotions. ‘The goal was to explore where my heart and mind were at,’ he explained. Mortimer’s nomination places him alongside other notable artists like Vybz Kartel, Jesse Royal, and Keznamdi, all vying for the prestigious award.