As Jamaica marks 63 years of independence, Sizzla Kalonji — some of the prolific and influential artists within the historical past of reggae and dancehall — is getting ready to mild up South Florida with a particular efficiency that doubles as a celebration of his 30-year profession in music.
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On August third, the Metropolis of Lauderhill will host the Strong As A Rock Live performance, named after considered one of Sizzla’s most enduring anthems. Recognized for its fiery declaration of resilience, id, and religious grounding, “Strong As A Rock” has transcended borders and eras to grow to be a rallying cry for followers throughout the globe. And it’s simply one of many many highly effective information that make up Sizzla’s towering discography — one that features over 70 albums and a catalog wealthy with messages of consciousness, black delight, social justice, and religious readability.
Born Miguel Collins in Saint Mary, Jamaica, Sizzla emerged within the mid-Nineties as a part of the Bobo Ashanti motion, bringing a brand new sort of depth to roots reggae. At a time when dancehall was dominating the charts, he struck a chord with acutely aware listeners searching for substance and spirit. His early works, together with Reward Ye Jah, Black Girl & Little one, and Royal Son of Ethiopia, rapidly established him as a voice for the unvoiced — a modern-day prophet channeling the hearth of reggae greats like Bob Marley and Burning Spear.
However Sizzla didn’t cease there. His work ethic is known. With a number of album releases in a single 12 months and a relentless efficiency schedule, he helped preserve roots reggae alive via turbulent many years and reshaped the sound for a brand new era. Now, 30 years later, he’s nonetheless recording, nonetheless touring, and nonetheless drawing large crowds — not solely in Jamaica however throughout Africa, Europe, the Caribbean, and North America.
His efficiency in Lauderhill comes simply months earlier than his official anniversary celebration in Kingston, set for October nineteenth, 2025, throughout Jamaica’s Heroes Weekend at Sabina Park. For followers in South Florida — dwelling to one of many largest Jamaican diaspora communities within the U.S. — this can be a uncommon probability to see the icon dwell earlier than the massive milestone present.
The Strong As A Rock Live performance isn’t nearly Sizzla, although. It’s additionally a robust showcase of Jamaican musical evolution. Sharing the stage would be the legendary Girl G, recognized for blazing a path for girls in dancehall; Admiral Tibet, whose basis tunes nonetheless maintain weight; and Etana, whose wealthy vocals and acutely aware lyrics have introduced soul again to trendy reggae.
“It’s not simply one other present, it’s a second in historical past,” says the planning crew. “To have Sizzla right here throughout his thirtieth 12 months is symbolic. His profession began with hearth, and he’s nonetheless burning vibrant.”
Hosted by the Metropolis of Lauderhill as a part of its Jamaica Independence celebration, the occasion is anticipated to attract followers from throughout the area — from longtime reggae heads to youthful listeners discovering Sizzla’s music for the primary time.
Whether or not you grew up on Thank You Mama, marched to Strong As A Rock, or are simply now studying about considered one of Jamaica’s most prolific voices, this live performance is an opportunity to witness historical past in movement. August third. Lauderhill. Sizzla Kalonji — nonetheless blazing after 30 years. Don’t miss it.
