Review: Sizzla Rises to the Occasion in Style to Mark 30 Years in Music

Reggae legend Sizzla Kalonji draws thousands for a night of roots, culture, and celebration, featuring star-studded performances by reggae and dancehall veterans, heartfelt renditions of his classics, and an energetic set alongside Beenie Man and Spragga Benz

Sizzla Kalonji ignites Sabina Park for 30th anniversary (Photo: Jamar Cleary)

Reggae legend Sizzla Kalonji marked 30 years in music in a monumental way with his Rise to the Occasion concert, drawing thousands to Sabina Park on Sunday night.

The early segments set a spiritual and soulful tone, featuring powerful performances from veterans like Turbulence, Fantan Mojah, Nesbeth, Bascom X, and Nadine Sutherland, who delivered a heartfelt rendition of Sizzla’s “Dry Cry,” along with the ever-fiery I-Wayne. Backed by the Ruff Kutt live band, each artist reminded fans of reggae’s golden era with timeless hits and heartfelt energy.

Two-time Grammy-nominated artist Jesse Royal elevated the energy with a solid set that included his renowned single “Modern Day Judas.” He later invited Ras-I, who performed his breakout hit “Somewhere Wonderful,” before Iba Mahr took the stage for a short but commanding performance.

The soulful Romain Virgo followed with a touching rendition of Sizzla’s classic “Holding Firm,” alongside his own hits such as “Fade Away” and “Me Can’t Sleep.” Christopher Martin then kept the momentum going with a short yet fiery set that featured crowd favorites like “Mama” and “Cheater’s Prayer.”

The night was structured so that Sizzla would appear between sets, performing selections from his deep, hit-filled arsenal - and he did so with powerful deliveries of “Nah Apologize,” “Give Me a Try,” and more.

The highlight came during a nearly 30-minute segment that turned into a full celebration of his musical legacy when icons Spragga Benz and Beenie Man joined him on stage. Sharing the mic, each performed some of their biggest hits as the trio exchanged classics and energy, with Sizzla commanding the moment through fan favorites like “No Way” and “Solid as a Rock.”

Dancehall icon Bounty Killer took the stage late but with commanding presence, delivering a powerful 30-minute set packed with classics like “Eagle and the Hawk” and “Nothing No Change.” He also paid tribute to fellow dancehall star Mavado with a performance of Vado’s breakout hit “Real McKoy,” while saluting members of his iconic Alliance crew, igniting Sabina Park in a wave of excitement.

At the end of an evening filled with tradition and timeless hits, the night stood as a powerful tribute to Sizzla Kalonji’s profound legacy and enduring impact on the history of Jamaican music.