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Hailed as one of Jamaica’s most prolific and influential entertainers, Sizzla Kalonji, born Miguel Collins, will celebrate 30 years in music this year.
The internationally acclaimed musician, who is credited by Rolling Stone magazine as having created a “masterpiece” with his second studio album Black Woman Child, released in 1997, was celebrated with an intimate gathering at Lume Bistro and Lounge in Pembroke Pines, Florida.
The event, dubbed Kalonji Konversations, launched the year-long tribute to the stalwart of reggae music whose influence has resonated across Jamaica, the diaspora, and the globe.
The support for Sizzla was felt, as his brothers and sisters in music including The Marley brothers, Stephen, Damian, Ky-Mani, Julian and Yohan; Anthony B; Nadine Sutherland; Cham, Don Yute; Jazzy T; Tony Matterhorn; DJ Karim; Yohance and many others were out in full effect.
In an intimate conversation with the musician, Sizzla spoke of his remarkable journey.
Reflecting on a milestone three decades in the making, post-event, the reggae icon shared what the night – and the journey – meant to him.
“It was quite a monumental occasion,” said Sizzla.
“Thirty years is no small accomplishment, especially in a business that is ever-changing, with new acts emerging every day. But it was quite an honour to see the outpouring of love and support from my musical family and just a joy to celebrate 30 years while still staying true to myself and my roots – doing music my way, the most high way – Jah Rastafari.”
Sizzla’s 30-year career saw him receive numerous awards and accolades. In 2014, he was nominated for a Best Reggae Album Grammy for The Messiah.
A cultural icon and vocal advocate for the Rastafari faith and a critic of societal ills, his music became a beacon of resistance, promoting spirituality, and love of the black culture.
He has released more than 80 studio albums, his first released in 1995 titled Burning Up.
30 INITIATIVES
To honour his groundbreaking contributions to reggae, dancehall and the Rastafarian faith, a series of 30 initiatives will be held globally.
On April 17, his annual earthstrong festivities move to his hometown of August Town, St Andrew, featuring performances and community engagements.
In October, this monumental celebration will culminate with a massive one-day event in Kingston, where the heart of reggae music beats, titled Rise to the Occasion – Celebrating 30 Years of Sizzla. The event is projected to bring together thousands of fans, industry stakeholders, and cultural enthusiasts to honour Sizzla Kalonji’s legacy. Patrons are expected to be immersed in an authentically curated cultural experience.
In explaining the reason behind the event, Tamiann Johnson, one of the three women of Cur8ting Global – the minds behind the celebration – shared, “Close friends, family, and fans alike agree that 30 years in music is more than enough reason to honour this living legend while he’s here to receive it. His influence on Jamaican culture and the world is undeniable. As the scripture says, no prophet is honoured in his own country – well, we will celebrate ‘Dadda’ now.”
The event will feature vibrant music, food, and culture that define Brand Jamaica while being part of a historic day for reggae. “This is not just a tribute to Sizzla, but to the rich heritage and global impact of truly Jamaican culture,” said Cur8ting Global’s Monique Blake.
“The intention and authenticity we’re pouring into this celebration – we want patrons to feel that. It will be a ‘Solid as a Rock’ kind of event.”
English (US) ·