Solid As A Rock - Sizzla celebrates three decades of reggae greatness

Reggae icon Sizzla Kalonji says he feels "honoured and privileged" by the overwhelming love and support shown to him as thousands turned out to celebrate his 30 years in music.

The event, aptly titled Rise To The Occasion, brought together an impressive line-up of artistes who, in Sizzla's words, "brought their own fire and A-game" for what proved to be an epic night of unity and culture.

"I wanna say a heartful thanks to the people. I'm overwhelmed and filled with passion to know that I've inspired so many people in the world as our duty is always to make a global impact to shape our future," Sizzla told THE STAR moments after igniting the stage with his fiery opening set.

"To see the nation coming together, celebrating 30 years of Sizzla, that is not just Sizzla - that's 30 years of African culture and knowledge being disseminated through the music in albums/sound systems; I'm really honoured I'm telling you," he added.

The event, held on Sunday during the Heroes' Weekend celebrations, drew a massive crowd to Sabina Park in Kingston, transforming the venue into a dazzling display of lights, energy, and live music. Backed by powerhouse bands such as Ruff Kut and Firehouse Crew, the performances kept fans riveted all night.

Adding to the spectacle were blazing torches that illuminated both sides of the stage, enhancing the fiery symbolism of Sizzla's artistry.

For the first time at a local live stage show, sign language interpreters were incorporated into the performances - an inclusive move that allowed members of the deaf community to fully experience the vibrations and message of reggae music.

Sizzla said the event reaffirmed his belief that more people are embracing their cultural identity and consciousness.

"I'm proud of them and I'm proud of every artistes coming out of the island because I myself was a young artiste and to see the magnitude of fans that are here right now and all the accolades following me, I just want to say thank you very much. I hope I have inspired a lot and can inspire more so that others can help to shape and add to the legacy of Rastafari and reggae music," he said.

The night kicked off with spirited performances from up-and-coming acts such as Jahbar I and Zaila Jazz, followed by reggae star Ras Shilo, who set the tone for the man of the moment. Sizzla's own high-energy performance electrified the crowd, paving the way for a star-studded lineup that included Nadine Sutherland, Turbulence, Romain Virgo, Christopher Martin, Bounty Killer, Beenie Man, Etana, and Fantan Mojah - all paying tribute to the veteran singjay's legacy.

Midway through the show, the legacy awards segment honoured the contributions of late reggae greats. Garnet Silk's daughter accepted his award, Determine's award was received by his son Runkus and other relatives, while Phillip 'Fatis' Burrell's was collected by his son Kareem 'Remus' Burrell.

Reggae maestro Calvin 'Cocoa Tea' Scott was also recognized for his enduring impact.

"Far too long artistes, musicians, promoters and producers have been contributing so much in the music and they are not being recognised," Sizzla said.

He continued: "A lot of artistes are being robbed of their publishing royalties and it's not right and it's time for us to look up to our icons/legends and give them the greatness they deserve. This is a personal milestone for me but I want to also use it to celebrate others and also tell you to rise with us, rise within yourself and rise to the occasion," added the Solid As A Rock hitmaker.

Meanwhile, Sizzla said the event's title, Rise To The Occasion, was deliberately chosen to reflect the global reach and spiritual power of one of Sizzla's most beloved anthems.

"That song has brought a lot persons through a lot of difficult times - even persons in coma, people diagnosed with cancer. I don't know but the words of this song brings healing and are very powerful and uplifting; word is the power and the word is Almighty I, Rastafari," he said.

Now 49, Sizzla reflected on the enduring strength of reggae as a cultural force.

Looking ahead, Sizzla said his mission is to continue spreading messages of unity, self-awareness, and empowerment.

"I want youths to be more business minded and responsible," he added.