Beenie Man and Bounty Killer deliver epic battle on Verzuz

Beenie Man and Bounty Killer, Jamaica’s dancehall giants and living legends, battled on the Verzuz platform just hours ago. It is truly hard to articulate my emotions. 3.7 million people tuned in and the veterans left us wanting more. I have been an avid onlooker since Verzuz started promoting these virtual battles. They have been a great source of entertainment as the world tries to cope with the stresses that come with Covid-19. The first attempt between Babyface and Teddy Riley was an epic fail because of data issues, technical glitches etc. but they were eventually able to redeem themselves the week after. Erykah Badu vs Jill Scott had me swooning in my living room and regretting not buying incense and candles to match their super fly zen. I missed Ludacris vs Nelly but I would not and could not miss my very own, do-it-for-the-culture battle between King Beenie Man and The General Grunggaadzilla, Bounty Killer. 

For Jamaicans, you have to understand a few things, clashes have always been a part of our culture. Generationally, it has been a showdown of lyrical creativity and quick-mindedness. Clashes can catapult the career of artistes, establishing respect, increasing popularity, reach, income and opportunity. Clashes are synonymous to Brand Jamaica. Jamaican artistes (especially Dancehall artistes), will tell you that even if their careers do well abroad, getting the respect and support of Jamaicans is the highest honour. 

Growing up in the 80s, I would have been too young to attend the stage shows at the time. The expletives, sexually suggestive or violent lyrics, scantily attired women, “colourful” characters, and the strong smell of marijuana would have been a no-go zone LOL. I am now an adult and I’ve attended and revelled at so many stage shows and witnessed the amazing prowess and unique styles of our artistes.

Beenie Man is affectionately known as the “gyal dem sugar” (ladies man) possessing flair, charisma, dance moves, and hits that appeal to men and women. He is always up for a good time. Bounty Killer has an unmistakable and unshakable voice. He commands respect and attention by just uttering his famous sayings “people dead”, “kaboom” “cross, angry, miserable.” His lyrics are harsher and go straight for the jugular of any opponent. His all-black attire and serious countenance have been a part of his signature. Over the years, we have seen him laugh and smile more while performing.

Although Beenie Man was eventually crowned King of the Dancehall in 2009 at Sumfest, Bounty Killer will forever be his formidable lyrical opponent. As veterans in the business, they have buried their hatchet, publicly shown respect to each other, and have encouraged fans all over the world to accept that their battles will be friendly ones. 

On Saturday, May 23, 2020, viewers from all over the globe tuned in to watch the first-ever dancehall, in-person battle hosted by Verzuz TV. Beenie Man and Bounty Killer did not disappoint. They delivered a high energy set for a full hour. They pulled out their catalogues that span decades, incorporated unique dance moves, and flew our flag high. Based on the comments, it is safe to say that this has been the best battle on Verzuz thus far. 

So what were my 10 favourite moments? Let's relive them

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Cheers

T