Snoop Lion, Sizzla finalists for Reggae Grammy

After temporarily ditching hardcore lyrics for songs about unity and anti-violence, Snoop Dogg has seen his Reggae efforts rewarded by The Recording Academy.

He was named one of five finalists on Friday for the Best Reggae Album award at next year’s Grammy Awards.

The artist, whose real name is Calvin Broadus, is being nominated for his album Reincarnated, released in April while using the Snoop Lion moniker.

The album  features collaborations with Mavado, Popcaan, Mr. Vegas, Drake and Miley Cyrus amongst others.

It was the best-selling Reggae album in the United States this year .

Over 21,000 copies sold in its debut week and to date  has sold well over 50,000 copies there.

Despite criticism from legendary Jamaican artists such as Bunny Wailer and Lady Saw, the album received a number of positive reviews.

However, the Snoop Lion act appears to have been cut  at least for the time being,

as he recently changed his name again to Snoopzilla.

Another artist receiving his first Reggae Grammy nod is Sizzla Kalonji  for his album, The Messiah.

Having recorded over 70 albums in his career, it is the first chance he will have a music’s most prestigious award.

The Messiah features 15 tracks, including Chant Dem Down and Psalm 121.

Beres Hammond is also among the finalists, securing his first nomination since 2002 with his One Love, One Life double album.  Featuring the hit single, In My Arms.

The other two contenders for the Best Reggae Album award are four-time winner, Ziggy Marley for Ziggy Marley in Concert and Sly & Robbie and the Jam Masters with Reggae Connection.

The 56th Grammy Awards will take place on January 26 at the Nokia Theatre in Los Angeles.