Veteran reggae artiste Nitty Kutchie delivered an emotional tribute to fellow Seaview Gardens native Bounty Killer on Tuesday as the dancehall icon was presented with the Key to the City during a ceremony at Seaview Gardens Primary School.
Reflecting on their shared journey from the Kingston community to international recognition, Nitty Kutchie praised Bounty Killer, born Rodney Price, for receiving an honour he believes is richly deserved.
“I know say the man who deserves it, get it,” Nitty Kutchie said. “Our five-star general. From years, from we a come from Riverton to Seaview, to King Jammy’s and right here now—it feels good. We know say a road name after you, and more to come.”
The singer also acknowledged those who helped make the occasion possible.
“So, big up Patrick, big up Audrey, Banky, and big up all the people who make this possible for Rodney Price. Our five-star general.”
Beyond celebrating Bounty Killer’s achievements, Nitty Kutchie used the moment to encourage the dancehall legend to prioritise his health and well-being.
“I’m asking you to stay alive. Likewise, I have to do the same thing,” he said. “The greatest thing we have right now is waking up. It’s not an alarm clock wake me up—the Almighty God. So you have to always, at all times, put the Almighty God first in everything we are doing.”
He stressed that good health is more valuable than material possessions.
“Health means everything because you don’t know how the things set right now. Exercise is important. Material wealth comes and goes, but the one life you have—you only have one life. So you have to take care of yourself.”
In one of the most touching moments of his tribute, Nitty Kutchie spoke candidly about his love and admiration for Bounty Killer.
“No matter how many go up and down, you know I love you. I cry for you, genuinely. God Almighty knows that from my heart. Stay up, stay true, and be the person where you always be, because the greatest thing is to be yourself. You can’t be nobody else.”
He encouraged Bounty Killer to continue living authentically and doing things the right way.
“When you do your thing, just do it how you like to do it—the right way.”
Closing his remarks, Nitty Kutchie reflected on his own outlook on life, saying he has never measured success by wealth.
“I’ve never made a fortune. It’s probably not too late, but I don’t worry about that much because I’m happy. As I go along life’s journey, I’m reaping better than I am sowing. My pockets ain’t got a lot of riches. Sometimes the road gets rough, but I’ve got a friend in Jesus.”
