SIZZLA - THE EARLY YEARS
Miguel Collins aka Sizzla Kalonji was born in the parish of St. Mary on April 17, 1976. He moved to August Town at a young age and began his career in the music industry in his early teenage years. At that time, he was also attempting to begin a career as a mechanic, as his father (Father Magnet aka Daddy Sizzla) operated a garage. 2pac ru still down album download zippyshare. The career as a mechanic would soon take a back seat to the music and eventually fade.
Sizzla recorded many unacclaimed and obscure singles for various producers throughout most of his early years. He also spent many years as a young mentee of Homer Harris, who was an elder responsible for steering Sizzla on his destined musical path as a youth.
(Sizzla and Homer Harris)
Praise Ye Jah was quickly trumped by his release of the Dixon-produced Black Woman & Child that same year. The title track was a smash hit and became something of a cultural reggae anthem. Sizzla scored several more hits during 1997, including 'Like Mountain,' 'Babylon Cowboy,' 'Kings of the Earth,' and the Luciano duet 'Build a Better World'. Released just weeks after his breakthrough sophomore album, BLACK WOMAN & CHILD, Sizzla’s third LP, PRAISE YE JAH, helped solidify the Jamaican singer’s place among contemporary reggae’s elite. Produced by Philip “Fatis” Burrell, PRAISE YE JAH includes “Dem a Wonder,” “No Other Like Jah.
Sizzla's style at that time was in stark contrast to his mature and developed flow today, as is to be expected with any young talent that is beginning to blossom. Sizzla did not really begin to 'come into his own' and become the artiste with whom we are now familiar until the mid 90's when he was signed by Fattis Burrell, who was the owner and CEO of XTerminator Records. Xterminator has produced and managed some of the biggest current talent in Reggae such as Buju Banton, Luciano, Beres Hammond and others.
Title track of Sizzla's 1997 album 'Praise Ye Jah'Lyrics: I did behold Until the proud was casted down yah 'Ave di ancient of days is King Haile Selassie I J.
At that point in the mid 90's after signing his first deal, Sizzla obtained a visa and began touring overseas with Luciano and Beres Hammond as an opening act for them. Sizzla also began growing his locks at that time and began preaching a Rasta oriented message as opposed to the mundane music of his previous years.
The point at which Sizzla arrived on the scene is pivotal due to the fact that a 'Roots Revival' was occuring at the time, with Garnet Silk and Luciano as it's frontmen. Lonworks interfaces download. In the earlier Dancehall music that was characteristic of the mid 80's to mid 90's, 'slack' lyrcis were the order of the day. These were lyrics that promoted of guns, sex, etc. Hence the term 'slack'. The main purveyors of this genre of Dancehall were artistes such as Shabba Ranks, Admiral Bailey, Ninjaman, Supercat, among others.
Discover releases, reviews, credits, songs, and more about Sizzla - Praise Ye Jah at Discogs. Complete your Sizzla collection. Praise Ye Jah is also the name of Sizzla’s third studio album, this is the title track of the album and this song is also featured on The Journey – The Very Best of Sizzla Kalonji. This song takes.
Garnet Silk, who was by all means the main figurehead for the Roots Revival movement, was killed at his home in Manchester, Jamaica in Decemeber 1994 due to a gas cylinder explosion in his yard. Upon the loss of Garnet Silk, the movement anticipated the arrival of a new figurehead to lead the Roots Revival Nation. However, it took a few years for Sizzla to emerge as the undisputed leader of the movement.
When Sizzla initially signed to Xterminator he had a relatively slow start. He released a few singles that received good rotation and scored his first big hit in 1995 ('No White God'). In the tune 'No White God', which remains a popular anthem to this day, Sizzla espoused his Bobo Ashanti ideal of a Black Messiah, an ideal which he realized during his frequent pilgrimmages to 'Zion', otherwise known as Bobo Hill. It was at Bobo Hill where Sizzla was initially crowned by the Honorable Priests as a Bobo Ashanti. The lyrics in 'No White God' were markedly different from his previous Rasta inspired lyrics, in fact, they were perceived as 'inflammatory' by more mainstream audiences at the time. It was evident that Sizzla had begun to tap into his musical potential and expand it on a deeper level as a result his pilgrimmages to Bobo Hill.
Soon after 'No White God', Sizzla released his first acclaimed album entitled, 'Praise Ye Jah' for XTerminator, which was an international hit. At this point, Sizzla's relations with Luciano began to deteriorate due to the fact that the two had begun to blaze different trails within the same music. Luciano represented a mild force, while Sizzla began to become heavily associated with his true element; fire. While Luciano and Sizzla recorded many musical combinations together and toured together frequently is Sizzla's early days, Sizzla was entering a new dimension in his career and devloped into the Fire Man that we are now familiar with.
Not long after the release of 'Praise Ye Jah', Sizzla released an even more critically acclaimed classic album entitled, 'Black Woman and Child', under a different producer named Bobby Digital, who has produced the majority of Sizzla's classic albums including 'The Real Thing'. 'Black Woman and Child' was the album responsible for catapulting Sizzla into the Reggae stratosphere and soon after, Sizzla adopted the name 'Kalonji', which means victorious.
THE NEW KALONJI
Kalonji began to garner more negative attention in the late 90's due to the release of 'slack' tunes which were sexually graphic in nature, such as 'Pump Up Her Pum Pum' and others too numerous to mention. Previously, Kalonji was known as a strictly 'roots' artiste, and many of his hardcore fans became disenchanted by Kalonji's seemingly raunchy lyrics. However, Kalonji offered a simple explanation when confronted with this criticism by simply stating that, 'Man and woman are the natural order of things. Man and woman bring forth life'. Kalonji would also issue this line of reasoning in response to later criticism by gay rights groups.
The release of sexually graphic material marked another turning point in Kalonji's career because it added a dimension of versatility to his repertoire. He began to record on more hardcore dancehall riddims that are seemingly contrary to the 'roots' music and also began to frequently denounce homosexuality in his songs.
Kalonji soon became an anomaly due to his unparalleled versatility and it became difficult to classify his music strictly within the genre of Reggae. This trend has continued to this day as he has experimented with Jazz and R&B with an arguably great deal of success. In addition, Kalonji has been one of the most imitated artistes in Reggae since he emerged on the scene.
While Kalonji was experimenting with different aspects of the music at that time, he also enrolled at the University of Technology in St. Andrew where he studied architecture, again proving that he is not only limited to making songs.
DA REAL THING
When the name 'Sizzla Kalonji' is mentioned in Reggae circles, it usually provokes an extreme response in all those who are present. This is the mark of a truly innovative individual whose name will undoubtedly stand the test of time due to the fact that the particular responses which are evoked by Sizzla's name and his music are of no consequence. The sole fact that the responses are extreme is the only issue at hand because this in of itself signifies Sizzla's power to affect the Reggae-loving masses positively or negatively in a very potent way. Even those who happened to be turned off by his music and message will have to admit that Sizzla is a truly gifted artiste at the very least. On the other hand, those who are positively inspired by Sizzla's music may claim that he is the 'King of Reggae'.
In response to all of the criticism from his former fans who longed for the 'Black Woman and Child' classic Sizzla days, while simultaneously denouncing his increasing penchant for performing 'slack' tunes, Sizzla released what is arguable his best album to date, 'Da Real Thing' in 2003. This album consists of strictly roots and lovers rock material, while every single tune featured on the album eventually became bonafide hits and eventual classics. The various singles on this album spent numerous weeks on the Jamaican and international Reggae charts. The lead single for this album, 'Thank You Mama', which is a tender ode to his mother, Mama Lou, was even played in some conservative Christian churches in Jamaica, which is a testament to the wide appeal that this album had on many levels across different demographics.
Before the release of 'Da Real Thing', some of Sizzla's fans had become disappointed due to his forays into other realms of the music. 'Da Real Thing' album definitely lived up to its name, and certain tracks from the album still enjoy heavy rotation in the Reggae scene almost fifteen years after it's release. Not to mention the fact that Sizzla has since released dozens of albums since then in addition to thousands of singles. This huge musical output that has become characteristic of Sizzla over the years led many critics and detractors alike to assert that the bulk of his recordings were subpar and rushed. This still remains a huge criticism of detractors today. In addition, many detractors have claimed over the years that Sizzla 'fell off' and his career was over. Eventually Sizzla had the last laugh with the release of 'Da Real Thing'.
CONTROVERSY
Sizzla Kalonji, whose real name is Miguel Collins, is a household name in Reggae music internationally and has become synonymous with the creation of conscious and inspiring anthems.
His repertoire of music boasts over 400 tracks – spanning his 25-year career – and has received several accolades locally and internationally, despite his experiences with controversy.
His timeless discography has inspired and influenced many renowned artistes, who have sampled his melodies and lyrics in their own projects. With the release of Kalonji’s latest 12-track album, Million Times, it’s only fitting to reminisce on the Reggae icon’s greatest hit songs of all time.
Just One of Those Days (Dry Cry) (2002)
This is one of the classics from Sizzla’s chart-smashing album Da Real Thing, which was released in 2002 and went on to peak at number 6 on Billboard’s Hot R&B/ Hip Hop Songs chart in the same year. Frequently referred to as “Dry Cry”, Just One of Those Days quickly became an anthem for introspection and hope for better days. This hit track, produced by renowned producer Bobby Digital, has received international acclaim and repeated airplay locally since its debut 18 years ago. It has become a staple Reggae track heard at any party in Jamaica.
Solid As A Rock (2002)
Sizzla’s most sampled track, Solid As A Rock, is a well-known Reggae anthem that was released in 2002 as a part of the 15-track Da Real Thing. Giving rise to the popular phrase, “They can’t keep a good man down”, Solid As A Rock is a verbal affirmation of self-awareness and self-worth in a society built to entrap and oppress. The track has since been sampled by American rapper Jay-Z in his 2013 track Crown, and by Ja Rule and 50 Cent in the songs The Crown (2003) and My Crown (2012) respectively.
Thank U Mamma (2002)
Sizzla’s Da Real Thing album was the birthplace for many of his timeless records. Another hit track from the album is Thank U Mamma, which is known globally as one of the most popular Reggae tributes to motherhood. Blasted across the airwaves annually on Mother’s Day, Thank U Mamma is appreciated by many as a heartfelt ode to mothers for their strength and unconditional love and support for their children. Sizzla poured out emphatic emotions onto the track, expressing his gratitude for his mother’s sacrifices in birthing him and supporting his growth.
Sizzla Praise Ye Jah Riddim
Rise To The Occasion (2003)
Sizzla Praise Ye Jah Lyrics And Song
“Rise to the occasion, look at yourself then say you’re strong. No one can stop you.” As another addition to Sizzla Kalonji’s collection of inspirational music, Rise To The Occasion definitely ranks within his top five most motivational songs of all time. Rooted in self-confidence and intrinsic motivation, Rise To The Occasion formed a part of Kalonji’s 2003 album of the same name – which peaked at number 10 on Billboard’s Hot R&B/ Hip Hop Songs chart. As a staple in Reggae music, this track joins the list of Sizzla’s tracks that are a must-play in parties locally.
Sizzla Praise Ye Jah
Black Woman & Child (1997)
As a member of the Bobo Ashanti order, Sizzla has always advocated for the protection and empowerment of Africa, Africans, and those in the diaspora through his music. Black Woman & Child is one of Kalonji’s earliest tributes to the African identity on his album of the same name, which was released in 1997 through Brickwall Records. Black Woman & Child celebrates the continuation of the African race and royalty passed through generations of leaders and children, and Sizzla’s love and appreciation for black women and children rather than money and material gain. The appreciation of African culture is a virtue for which Sizzla continues to lobby musically.
To The Point (2001)
Released on Sizzla Kalonji’s 2001 album Taking Over, To The Point is one of the artiste’s more aggressive tracks calling for retribution for religious and political oppressors of Rastafarians and youths from the ghetto. The track’s four verses vehemently rebuke the cruelty of the Roman Catholic Church, the British monarchy, and the Jamaican government. Although To The Point, which was released through VP Records, ranks high on the list of most memorable songs from Sizzla, it is one of the artiste’s more controversial tracks because of its homophobic lyrics.
Give Me A Try (2003)
Known for his melodic serenades for the ladies, Sizzla released yet another love song dedicated to his beloved. Give Me A Try was released in 2003 on Kalonji’s Rise To The Occasion album, which was released through Greensleeves Records. Give Me A Try is a gentle appeal for the acceptance of the artiste’s love, admiration, dedication, and promise of a better life. This hit has become one of the most popular Reggae songs of all time, appreciated internationally by fans and other celebrities.
Sizzla Praise Ye Jah Zip
Simplicity (2002)
Simplicity we use to survive quickly became and still remains a popular mantra following the release of this great track from Sizzla Kalonji. Released on the Da Real Thing album in 2002, Simplicity encourages mindfulness and intelligence as means of assuring peace of mind and enjoying life. To Sizzla, simplicity in living is rooted in meditation, compassion, understanding, and humility – virtues frequently recurring in his music. Simplicity was later sampled by Tarrus Riley and Konshens in their 2018 track Simple Blessings.
Woman I Need You (2002)
Woman I Need You is a renowned serenade from Sizzla, released on the Da Real Thing album in 2002. Yot to mp3. Produced by Bobby Digital, this ode to black women joins Sizzla’s timeless hits dedicated to the love, appreciation, and celebration of black women and their strength and sensuality. What makes this track timeless is a combination of the rich Reggae melody, Sizzla’s husky vocals, and the sincerity of the track’s lyrics.
Praise Ye Jah (1997)
Released on Sizzla’s third studio album of the same name, Praise Ye Jah joins songs like To The Point and Solid As A Rock in rebuking the repression of the poor by religion and politics. Praise Ye Jah, produced by Phillip “Fatis” Burrell through Xterminator Records in 1997, is a part of Kalonji’s earlier repertoire of music that deeply analyzed and criticized the role of Christianity in the concealment of factual African history and the ostracizing of Rastafarian beliefs. Citing great leaders in the African community such as Bob Marley, Malcolm X, and Martin Luther King, Sizzla uses this track to reaffirm his unwavering belief in Rastafarianism as a member of the Bobo Ashanti order.
Sizzla Praise Ye Jah Full Album
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