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 Key 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.

“Our community is a golden garden. 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 the significance of the occasion far surpassed international acclamation.

Bounty Killer in full flight on stage during a past show.

“This is more than a Grammy to me. These are people who watched me emerge as a young artiste. These people are people who are personally involved in my upbringing, and for them to decide that I deserve the key to Kingston, this is something phenomenal,” he said.

For his part, Kingston Mayor Andrew Swaby congratulated Price and noted that the recognition is more than celebrating the successful musician, describing it as a statement about the values of the city and the potential that exists within communities such as Seaview Gardens.

“Too often communities like Seaview Gardens are viewed through the lens of their challenges rather than their possibilities. People sometimes make assumptions about what someone can achieve based on where they come from, but as we all should know by now an address does not determine one’s personal potential. What Bounty Killer’s life demonstrates is the clearest possible term that potential exists in every community; talent discipline and determination can emerge from anywhere for our young people,” said Swaby.

Announcing the renaming of Wenchman Road to Rodney Price Drive, Swaby said the tribute would ensure that the artiste’s legacy remains permanently etched in the community that shaped him.

“His name will remain fixed to this day, in this very community that raised him, so that anyone who passes through Seaview Gardens will know that greatness comes from these streets. So Bounty Killer, on behalf of the citizens of Kingston and St Andrew, thank you. Thank you for your music, for your mentorship, and for the contribution that you have made to Jamaica’s culture. This city is proud to recognise you as a son of Kingston, and it is an honour today to place this key in your hands,” said the mayor.