Sizzla Receives Key to the City of Lauderhill

South Florida pulsed with reggae rhythms, national pride, and community spirit as the City of Lauderhill honored Sizzla with the Key to the City of Lauderhill during a spectacular tribute to Jamaica’s 63rd Independence Anniversary on Sunday, August 3rd. Held at the Lauderhill Performing Arts Center, the “Solid As A Rock” celebration drew an enthusiastic crowd eager to revel in the island’s music, culture, and unity.

The evening unfolded with a seamless blend of seasoned talent and fresh energy. DJ Radcliffe opened with a roots-infused set, warming the audience for the night ahead. Hal Anthony followed with a moving rendition of Land of My Birth, setting a fittingly patriotic tone.

DJ Fergie’s turn behind the decks proved a standout moment early on  his crisp selections, confident hosting, and sharp audience connection kept the vibes high and the crowd locked in. Festival favorite Roy Rayon, a four-time Jamaica Festival Song Competition winner, brought nostalgia and warmth, reminding patrons of the deep cultural roots that underpin the Independence celebrations.

From there, the lineup rolled out one powerhouse act after another. Lady G commanded the stage with her signature wit and dancehall classics, followed by Admiral Tibet, whose conscious reggae messages resonated deeply. Johnny P made a cameo appearance to join Tibet, while Supa Sound with Smoky Fyah injected spiritual energy into the night.

Adding extra star power, DJ Foota Hype kept the crowd engaged with a mix of hits and surprise guests, including actress Audrey Reid of Dancehall Queen fame and Major Myjah, son of Bounty Killer. Roots songstress Etana then took the spotlight, blending reggae, ska, and soul with a versatility that drew roaring applause.

The night’s pinnacle came when cultural icon Sizzla Kalonji was honored for his three decades of musical contribution and cultural advocacy. In a moment charged with pride, Mayor Denise D. Grant presented him with the Key to the City of Lauderhill, joined by Congresswoman Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick with a U.S. Congressional Proclamation and State Representative Lisa Dunkley with a Florida State Commendation.When Sizzla finally took the mic, it was nothing short of a musical coronation.

Backed by an electric crowd, he delivered classics like Solid As A Rock, Thank You Mama, Good Ways, and Dry Cry, while sharing reflections on Marcus Garvey’s teachings and the preservation of Maroon heritage. The set even featured a surprise appearance by Pressure Buss Pipe, who treated fans to Love and Affection.