Sizzla Ignites International Reggae Night
Reggae legend Sizzla, 50, headlined a lively — and 'wet' — International Reggae Night as part of the Virgin Islands' 72nd Emancipation celebrations, keeping the crowd energized with several of his hits. Organisers also highlighted tonight's free-admission Lavida Cottoy Festiville show and shared the festival's theme and slogan for 2026.
Sizzla, the acclaimed Jamaican reggae artiste, brought an electrifying set to International Reggae Night on the opening weekend of the Virgin Islands' 72nd Emancipation celebrations. The performance — billed as a 'wet' International Reggae Night — did nothing to dampen the mood as Sizzla delivered crowd favourites including "Just One of Those Days," "Solid As A Rock," "Thank U Mamma," and "Rise to the Occasion." Sizzla, aged 50, remained the hot favourite among patrons and added a high-energy headline to a night of regional talent.
Earlier in the programme Jamaican singer Shanniel Muriel treated many in attendance, particularly the ladies, with selections from her catalogue such as "Same Guy," "The Pain," and "Yamabella." Local and regional acts CP4, Kyah Nation, Ritical and OMG also performed, providing a mix of roots, conscious lyrics and contemporary reggae sounds that reflected the festival’s cultural focus.
The evening was supported by DJ Taz on the decks while Floyd P. Burnett, better known as 'Heritage,' served as host, guiding the crowd through the line-up and keeping the energy high between sets. Organisers and performers emphasised the cultural importance of the Emancipation Festival, which each year highlights music, heritage and community across the territory.
Last night’s programme also included Flag Night — billed as Rep Ya Flag Soca Invasion — which showcased soca heavyweights such as Patrice Roberts, Xclusive, Triple Kay, Lil Natty & Thunda, Problem Child and Vibe. That show gave festival-goers a taste of Carnival-style intensity leading into the rest of the Emancipation events.
Residents should note that tonight, Sunday, August 2, 2026, is a free-admission night at Lavida Cottoy Festiville. The line-up features UFO, GBM Nutron, Kerwin Du Bois, Big Shaw, and Pumpa/Blind Earz. The organisers have set this year's Emancipation Festival theme as "Culture Rising, Hearts Aligned, VI Festival, One of a Kind" with the slogan "Echoes of Heritage, Rhythm In The Mix, Celebrate Virgin Islands Festival 2026." The festival continues to offer free and ticketed events that celebrate the Territory’s cultural heritage and bring regional music stars to local audiences.
Residents are encouraged to check official festival announcements for schedules and any weather-related updates before attending.
Primary source: VINO