Machel Dedicates Hummingbird Gold Medal to His Family.

Machel Montano, the undisputed King of Soca, has dedicated his Hummingbird Gold Medal, received on the weekend, to his family.

Montano, who celebrates 40 years in the Soca music business, this year, was honored by his country, Trinidad and Tobago, during Republic Day celebrations. “I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude on receiving the Hummingbird Gold National award of Trinidad and Tobago this weekend,” he wrote on social media on Monday. “I am humbled and wish to dedicate this honor to my family, my parents Elizabeth and Winston Montano who set me on this path and without whom I would not stand proud here in this moment,” he continued.

The artist who began his career at the age of 9 said his parents’ love, guidance and support throughout the years have been his foundation. He thanked his brother Marcus for igniting his musical spark and always being there for him. “Up to this day, someone I can call on anytime for any task,” he said, adding, “My wife, my children, in-laws, sister-in-law, nieces, aunts, cousins and loved ones who have all steered and cheered me on.”

Montano said over his 40 year journey in music, his family has grown into a ‘Famalay’…sprawling all over the globe. “All my musical friends, writers, producers, musicians, managers, dancers, collaborators, creators, techs, teachers, assistants, dedicated staff, friends and FANS … everyone who has ever contributed to anything I’ve done, it’s always been fun and I thank you all. I celebrate this award today with appreciation for how blessed I am to have people in my life that help me to realize my dreams,” wrote the artist.

Machel said he hopes his receipt of this award can be an inspiration to all other entertainers, to keep working hard and to keep on aspiring.