Soca Superstar Machel Montano receives key to the city of Lauderhill

Trinidadian soca superstar Machel Montano was honored with the Key to the City of Lauderhill by Vice Mayor Lawrence “Jabbow” Martin during the Miami Carnival 2024 Panorama competition at Carnival Village North, Central Broward Park. This recognition acknowledges Montano’s significant contributions to community and culture.

Vice Mayor Martin expressed the decision to honor Montano, stating, “We always recognize talent and special people who give back to the community. His music brings people together; it’s a happy sound, a good sound, a party style that embodies Caribbean culture.”

Regarding the financial impact of Carnival on the community, Martin remained cautious yet optimistic. He noted that, after being on hold for a couple of years due to COVID-19, this year’s event is reportedly “bigger and better” than last year, which was already a success. He mentioned that they are still assessing the overall economic effects as the event continues to grow.

Vice Mayor Lawrence “Jabbow” Martin highlighted the invaluable unity fostered by the Miami Broward One Carnival Host Committee’s annual event, emphasizing that bringing communities together is the core of the celebration. He noted, “The economic impact kind of takes care of itself. Lauderhill does great, Broward County does great, and this [Carnival season] just brings families together.”

Machel Montano, visibly touched by receiving the Key to the City of Lauderhill, expressed his gratitude, saying, “I’m very proud to receive this honor… Thank you very much to the City of Lauderhill for this honor. I would like to thank the entire Committee, commissioners, and heads.”

In his address to the audience, Montano underscored the importance of Caribbean unity, stating, “Regardless of the island you’re from, this is our culture. The idea is one Caribbean…. Let’s be proud of our islands, proud of what we display in the world as total joy and happiness—our music, our food, our dance, and our people.”

He then delighted the crowd with an impromptu a cappella performance: “You see me, I’s a man, love to play, love to jam. You see me, I’s a man, Miami I so happy with this key in my hand.” This accolade adds to Montano’s impressive collection, which already includes keys to the cities of Port of Spain, Kingston, and New York.