Reggae music icon Nadine Sutherland brought the red dress. The city of Tamarac brought the flowers—and a key to the city.
The Jamaican music icon was honored on October 10 at the second annual Red Gala at the Tamarac Community Center in Florida. But beyond the beautifully decorated venue and civic recognition, one detail made the moment especially meaningful: both her parents are alive to celebrate it.
For Sutherland, the honour was a reminder of what happened when she kept going through the highs, the lows and the temptation to change direction.
“I stayed the course, and God has been good to me and to be able to be living, to be receiving some flowers, i am honoured,” she said.
The singer, songwriter and actress, who holds Jamaica’s Order of Distinction, received the Key to the City for her contribution to Jamaican music and her lasting cultural impact across the Caribbean and its diaspora.
Her gratitude, however, reached back to the people who supported her before the accolades arrived.
“They were there in the beginning, and they have been walking with me, especially my dad who has been my protector in the early stages.”
Having her parents able to hear and see the recognition gave the occasion an emotional weight that went beyond the presentation itself.
“I am very very very honoured, feeling elated, feeling blessed, and most importantly, feeling thankful,” she said.
The gala also celebrated Tamarac Vice Mayor Marlon D. Bolton’s tenth anniversary of elected service. Bolton recognized Sutherland for a career that has carried Jamaican music to international audiences while strengthening connections among Caribbean communities.
And Sutherland gave his hosting skills a glowing review.
“The ceremony was exquisite, it was so beautifully done, nicely decorated, the food was great, Vice Mayor Marlon knows how to put on a show.”
The evening’s signature color extended from the décor to the guests—and Sutherland was happy to play her part.
“I was just happy I was able to go in my red frock cause the dress code was red, the decor was red, everyone had on red, it was good, it was exquisite,” she gushed.
A standout dress made for a stylish entrance. The chance to celebrate her journey while her parents could still share in it made the night worth remembering.
