Kardinal Offishall has been recognized as the recipient of this year's Allan Slaight Music Impact Honour.
The Canadian rap pioneer will be honoured at the 25th anniversary celebration of Canada's Walk of Fame, as part of a tribute to the 2023 inductees and honourees at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre in Toronto, ON on December 2.
Born Jason Harrow, the multi-award winning artist has scored massive hits with collaborations such as “Beautiful” with Akon, “Just Dance” with Lady Gaga, and “Numba 1” with Rihanna, not to mention his own chart-topping “Dangerous,” which reached #1 on the Hot 100. Kardi has become a mainstay on television, serving as a regular judge on Canada‘s Got Talent. In addition, he has hosted the Kardi Christmas Party charity event for the past 23 years.
"I am thrilled to hear that Kardinal Offishall will be receiving the Allan Slaight Music Impact Honour this year," Gary Slaight, president & CEO of the Slaight Family Foundation said in a press release. "Kardi, in his way, has pushed for the betterment of new artists, raised money to help those in need, and accomplished greatness in his career. For all of this, I am proud to say I have known Kardi for many years and that I genuinely can't think of anyone more deserving to receive this special recognition."
"For all of this, I am proud to say I have known Kardi for many years and that I genuinely can't think of anyone more deserving to receive this special recognition. Kardinal is a triple threat to Canada's vibrant music scene," Randy Lennox added, on behalf of the board of directors of Canada's Walk of Fame. "A musician, producer and A&R executive, he has entertained fans with his talent and shared his insights, lent his expertise and helped break down barriers to empower emerging Canadian musicians in a highly competitive global industry for nearly three decades. We proudly recognize his passion, dedication and contributions to Canada's cultural landscape as the 2023 Allan Slaight Music Impact Honouree."
The Allan Slaight Music Impact Honour recognizes the achievements of young Canadians who have the ability to turn their talent into inspiration. The honour is presented annually to a young Canadian who is making a positive impact in the field of music. Previous recipients of the honour include Drake (2011), Carly Rae Jepsen (2013), The Weeknd (2014), Shawn Mendes (2015) and last year's honourees, Arkells.