Big names for RISE Reggae Barbados

Barbados is about to be ignited with music and uplifting energy as RISE Reggae returns this November. Following the success of the inaugural RISE Reggae Festival in Montreal and the vibrant soca-powered RISE Wednesday in Barbados and St Vincent and the Grenadines, this edition promises an unforgettable celebration of Caribbean culture. On Saturday, November 15, music lovers can look forward to a powerhouse line-up headlined by reggae icon Sizzla Kalonji, joined by Romain Virgo, Junior Kelly, Rhesa Garnes and a dynamic mix of regional talent at the legendary Kensington Oval. The theme for this festival is ‘Peace, Love & Positive Vibes’.

Celebrating 30 years in the music industry, reggae icon Sizzla Kalonji takes centrestage as the headline act for this year’s RISE Reggae Barbados. “RISE is a powerful platform: it’s about conscious music and connection. It is an honour to be part of this night of celebration, unity, and positive energy as I celebrate 30 years as an entertainer,” Sizzla commented. Known for anthems like Thank You Mama, and Dry Cry, Sizzla rose to prominence in the 1990s and has since released more than 46 solo albums, blending roots reggae, dancehall, and Rastafarian spirituality. Performing with the legendary Firehouse Band, he promises a high-energy, spiritually charged set that honours his legacy as one of the most influential figures in modern reggae.

Joining him at RISE Reggae Barbados is soulful powerhouse Romain Virgo, known for his smooth vocals and heartfelt storytelling. Born in Stepney, St Ann, Virgo rose to prominence after winning Digicel Rising Stars, becoming the youngest contestant ever to claim the title. He is celebrated for blending lovers’ rock with conscious reggae, while his live performances resonate with audiences for their raw emotion and authenticity. Looking ahead to Rise Reggae, Virgo said, “RISE Reggae is more than a concert. It’s a movement. I’m honoured for the opportunity to share the stage as part of this celebration of peace and love – a message that the world needs right now.”

Alongside critically acclaimed Jamaican musical powerhouse Junior Kelly, RISE Reggae Barbados will also feature the very best of the island’s homegrown talent, Rhesa Garnes and the Empressive Roots. As the frontline for the only all-female reggae band in Barbados, Garnes is thrilled for the opportunity to showcase the high standard of entertainment that the island continues to produce. “As a female reggae artiste, I carry with me not only my own voice, but the weight of every sister who has come before me. To share the stage with these legends reaffirms that our music, our stories, and our passion belong in the regional landscape – filled with love, peace and unity.”

Producer De Carla Applewhaite stated, “We’re honoured to celebrate Sizzla’s extraordinary 30-year journey on our iconic reggae stage in Barbados. RISE Reggae has always been more than just a concert, it’s a celebration of the heart of reggae ... peace, love, and positive vibes ... and this year is no exception. We’re rising to the occasion with a special Meet & Greet Fireside Chat, bringing together aspiring youth in the music industry and young community leaders. It’s a moment to ‘cease and settle’ in the uplifting presence of reggae legends Sizzla, Romain Virgo, Junior Kelly, and rising star Rhesa Garnes – sharing experience, inspiration, wisdom and the powerful energy that is reggae culture.”