Bounty Killer gets key to Kingston

FROM the inner-city community of Seaview Gardens in western St Andrew that raised him to conquering the global dancehall stage, Rodney “Bounty Killer” Price returned home Tuesday to receive the Keys to the City of Kingston and the renaming of a road in his honour. “It’s official, the king of Kingston with the keys to Kingston,” a jubilant Price declared as he accepted the city’s highest civic honour during a ceremony at Seaview Gardens Primary School. In a further tribute to the dancehall icon, Wenchman Road — where Price spent much of his youth — was officially renamed Rodney Price Drive, following a petition from Seaview Gardens’ residents and approval by the Kingston and St Andrew Municipal Corporation (KSAMC).

Visibly moved by the recognition Price, who has also received the Order of Distinction for his invaluable contribution to Jamaica’s music scene, described the occasion as another meaningful milestone in his career, admitting that words could not fully express his gratitude. “Today is really the unfolding of another historical chapter in my career. And this milestone is a very unusual and an uncommon accomplishment — the Keys to the City of Kingston,” he said, thanking the KSAMC, mayor of Kingston Andrew Swaby, and other officials for the honour.

Kingston Mayor Andrew Swaby (right) makes a presentation to Rodney “Bounty Killer” Price, who was given the Keys to the City of Kingston on Tuesday. (Photo: Karl Mclarty) Pointing to the road which now bears his name, Price recalled how his life was defined by it, noting that it had witnessed both the beginnings of his journey and some of his darkest moments. “This is more than just a ceremony.

This is a celebration of troubles and trial and triumph and greatness. It’s just right round the road, that’s where I got shot when I was 16, right around there,” he said. He thanked the KSAMC for immortalising the name, the battles, and the triumphs he carried long before he became known to the world as Bounty Killer.

Hard work and dedication leads to these accomplishments and accolades in life. And then they say a king has never been crowned in his town, so what is this then?” questioned an evidently elated Price. The entertainer who has won a Grammy award for his feature on No Doubt’s multi-platinum hit song Hey Baby and received a solo Grammy nomination, told the ceremony that …