PM Andrew Holness on Sizzla Kalonji: “Rise to the Occasion Inspired Me to Become a Political Leader and Prime Minister”

When Jamaica’s Prime Minister pauses to reflect on the power of a song, it signals just how deeply music has shaped the nation’s story. Hon. Andrew Holness, in a moving tribute at the launch of Rise to the Occasion — Celebrating 30 Years of Sizzla Kalonji, revealed that the reggae icon’s catalogue has left an indelible mark not just on fans worldwide, but on his own personal journey to leadership. “Rise to the Occasion… gave me the inspiration to become leader of my political party and eventually to become Prime Minister,” Holness shared, crediting the 2003 anthem as a pivotal soundtrack to one of the most important decisions of his life.

Holness recalled his very first interaction with Sizzla at Reggae Sumfest years ago, long before political prominence, describing the artist as “very humble, very respectful.” That humility, paired with a catalogue of music steeped in spirituality, resilience, and cultural pride, has long set Sizzla apart. The Prime Minister described the Rastafarian singer as “a national icon in our music space,” emphasising that his artistry goes beyond entertainment to create “music with purpose and meaning” — music that, he said, is “timeless” and will “transcend generations.”

The remarks came as Kingston prepares to honour Sizzla with a milestone tribute at Sabina Park on October 19 during Heroes’ Weekend. The celebration, fittingly titled after the very track that inspired Holness’s political ascent, will bring together a powerhouse lineup of artists, friends, and contemporaries to “give Sizzla his flowers” in a night of performances and storytelling that underline his three-decade journey.

On social media, Holness extended the sentiment to his followers, writing: “Sizzla’s extensive catalogue of music has been and continues to be an inspiration for many including me. The song ‘Rise to the Occasion’ has a special place in my heart as an anthem of encouragement and affirmation, reminding me that no matter the challenges, with faith, determination, and hard work, we can overcome.”

For an artist whose mission has always been to uplift, inspire, and connect Jamaica to the world through reggae’s spiritual and revolutionary core, the Prime Minister’s words encapsulate Sizzla’s legacy: one of timeless messages, unshakable purpose, and music that continues to rise with each generation.