Jewish reggae singer Matisyahu says his nomination for the Soul Train Awards came as a surprise.

Matisyahu is vying for the best Caribbean Performance title. The American born Jewish reggae singer who is the only non-Caribbean artiste in the category is up against the likes of Cover Drive from Barbados, Jimmy Cliff, Damian Junior Gong Marley and Sean Paul.

In an exclusive interview with Music News, Matisyahu says being nominated is always good however; he’s not sure how he ended up in that category.

The Soul Train Awards recognizes top performers in urban and contemporary music. Organizers instituted a reggae category a few years ago, but later expanded it to Best Caribbean Performance.

The 2012 Soul Train Awards, hosted by Cedric the Entertainer, will be taped on November 8 in Las Vegas and later air on November 25 on BET and Centric.