The historic Sabina Park (One of many most iconic cricket grounds within the Caribbean) was remodeled into the mecca of reggae and dancehall on October nineteenth for the Rise to the Event live performance, a monumental celebration marking the Thirtieth anniversary in music of the legendary Sizzla Kalonji. What transpired was not merely a live performance however a spectacular, spiritually charged manufacturing that showcased the enduring energy of acutely aware music and the unity of Jamaican artistry.
The sheer depth of the lineup promised an unforgettable night time, however the collective expertise of the supporting acts delivered far past expectation, setting the stage completely for the person of the hour.
The night was a masterclass in musical versatility. Romain Virgo introduced the graceful, heartfelt vitality of contemporary lovers rock, his clear supply and commanding stage presence solidifying his place as a style stalwart. The fiery, uncompromising spirit of Bounty Killer ignited the gang with an explosive dancehall phase, proving why he’s nonetheless probably the most revered deejays within the enterprise.
Acutely aware reggae discovered its champions within the likes of I-Wayne, whose distinctive melodic model and highly effective messages resonated deeply, and Fantan Mojah, who introduced his attribute depth and lyrical pressure. The youthful era, represented by the considerate Jesse Royal, demonstrated the colourful way forward for roots music, carrying the torch with grace and keenness.
Etana’s soulful, highly effective vocals provided a stupendous second of female energy and melodic readability, whereas Chris Martin injected a burst of high-energy, infectious positivity, completely mixing reggae and pop sensibilities. Veterans like Turbulence, Spragga Benz, Beenie Man, and the uncooked expertise of artists like Nadine Sutherland all contributed astounding performances that stored the viewers locked from begin to end, every artist paying real homage to the headliner’s affect.
When Sizzla graced the stage, the environment reached a fever pitch. Backed by the flawless Firehouse crew, the veteran artist delivered a riveting set that spanned three many years of hits. From militant anthems like Strong as a Rock to reflective tracks, his efficiency was a strong testomony to his unwavering dedication to his message and the Rastafari motion. His signature rapid-fire supply and electrifying vitality proved he’s nonetheless on the peak of his craft. It was greater than a efficiency; it was an affirmation of a lifetime of labor, a lyrical sermon that moved those that gathered.
Rise to the Event was greater than a tribute; it was arguably probably the most spectacularly produced and musically wealthy reggae present of the yr. The seamless transitions, unbelievable sound high quality, and excessive caliber of each single efficiency, from foundational artists to present stars, created a very historic and spiritually uplifting expertise. Sizzla Kalonji’s Thirtieth-anniversary celebration stands as a definitive second: an evening when Jamaican music united to honor a real dwelling legend.
Rise to the Event
Sabina Park, Kingston, October 19, 2025
