Swiss-born reggae artiste gets Billboard Reggae plaque

Swiss-born reggae artiste Cookie the Herbalist says his recently received Billboard Reggae #1 plaque is a testament to the hard work he has poured into his craft and the invaluable guidance of veteran collaborators who shaped his journey.

Last week, he collected the award for the compilation album Tropical House Cruises to Jamaica, and has hailed legends such as the late Lee 'Scratch' Perry for their mentorship, inspiration, and pivotal role in his musical development.

The compilation album, which featured pop, reggae and dancehall heavy hitters like Damian and Stephen Marley, Ed Sheeran, Sean Paul, Capleton, Sizzla, Chronix and Lee 'Scratch' Perry, spent 19 weeks in Billboard's Top 10 Reggae Album Charts and four weeks at No. 1 on the Billboard Reggae Album charts.

It was also the seventh top reggae album on Billboard's end-of-year charts in 2025. Sean 'Contractor' Edwards of the Contractor Music Group was the executive producer.

Cookie the Herbalist said he had the "great honour" of having the late legendary producer Lee 'Scratch' Perry as a musical mentor and close friend.

"Touring the world with him was an amazing experience because he taught me so much about the magic of music-making. The song Eaze, featured on the billboard-charting album Tropical House Cruises to Jamaica, is one of our collaborations, so that recognition makes it even more special. Much respect and gratitude to Scratch."

Cookie the Herbalist told THE STAR that there is a strong and loyal reggae and dancehall community in Switzerland. He said cities like Zurich, Geneva, Bienne and Bern host regular events, and international Jamaican artistes perform there frequently.

He said that he is drawn to reggae because of the consciousness that the music represented.

"From the very beginning, I was deeply inspired by Jamaican music, culture, and the power of conscious lyrics," he said.

"The uplifting messages and social awareness rooted in reggae have continually shaped my artistic journey and remain the driving force behind my work today," he said.

Receiving the award, he added, is a huge achievement.

"I feel truly honoured. It's definitely a good look, and it represents an important milestone in my musical journey," he said.

"I see it as a blessing and a reward for all the hard work I've put in over the years. It confirms that dedication and consistency pays off. I hope it will open new doors, bring more shows, and attract greater attention to my music," he said.