There are many different reasons why people fall in love with Bermuda.

For Grammy Award-winning artist Sean Paul, it’s not just the turquoise water, pink sand and rum swizzles, but the burning passion locals have for reggae music.

“I love doing shows there and the fans are always so full of vibes and energy,” he said. “Every time I perform in Bermy I’m surprised by how up-to-date the people are on dancehall music.

“The first time I went there, I couldn’t believe how many sound systems there were on that little island. I can’t pinpoint the exact date, but I remember the vibe was wicked.”

Paul will headline the Cup Match Summer Splash at Par-la-Ville car park on August 2 along with soca queen Destra Garcia.

“It’s a big honour for me to be here,” said Paul, who is also a Soul Train, MTV Music Award, American Music Award and Source Award winner. “Just like in Jamaica, Emancipation Day is a big deal. I’m proud to help celebrate with you here in Bermuda.”

Paul’s origins are in dancehall although he’s since become an internationally recognised pop artist. Seventeen of his songs have earned spots on the Billboard Hot 100, four reached number one. His 2016 collaboration with Sia on Cheap Thrills topped charts around the world for many months. More recently, he claimed another top ten hit with a guest spot on Clean Bandit’s Rocabye. His dance-friendly tracks include the likes of Torey Lanez, David Guetta, Eli Goulding, Shakira and Migos.

The Jamaican rapper, singer, songwriter, musician, producer and actor won the 2004 Grammy Award for Best Reggae Album. Dutty Rock featured a rendition of the late Alton Ellis hit, I’m Still in Love with You performed along with Sasha.

He has recorded six studio albums and has a seventh in production and has had duets with some of the biggest names in the business — Beyoncé, Snoop Dog, Wyclef Jean and Rihanna. “I’ve been here making music constantly and always being true to what I feel and at the same time striving to give the fans what they want to hear,” Paul said. “Sometimes that’s pure dancehall and sometimes it’s collaborations.

“I respect musicians of all genres, so it’s easy for me to recognise great songs no matter what the genre is.

“Buju Banton always inspired me, he evolved through different styles and lyrical content and always delivered great music. Super Cat and Lieutenant Stitchie were also big dancehall influences for me.

“I love hip-hop greats like Tupac and Biggie who just had this amazing flow, as well as the Beatles — they wrote such amazing songs.”

Local DJs and artists will also be featured at this year’s Cup Match Summer Splash. International radio personality Nizzi Z will host alongside Bermuda’s own Qian Dickinson of Bermemes.

• Early bird tickets are now available at www.Bdatix.bm: general admission $65; VIP $150.