News Americas, New York, NY, Mon. October 14, 2024: Jamaican dancehall icon Vybz Kartel is making waves on the music charts once again, 13 years after his release from prison. The artist, known for his pioneering influence on the genre, continues to prove his dominance with his latest releases.
Kartel’s single “comets” has been a massive hit, garnering 6.2 million views in just four weeks and holding the top spot on YouTube for 25 consecutive days. His latest collaboration with his son, Likkle Addi, on the track “weather” (Man of the Match) is also climbing the charts, reaching 1.6 million views in just nine days and is currently number one on YouTube.
This rise in popularity reaffirms Vybz Kartel’s reign in the world of dancehall, with his enduring influence inspiring a new generation of fans and musicians. The artist’s return to the music scene after his 13-year legal battle is far from triumphant.
Adding to his musical success, Kartel has signed on for three upcoming concerts in Jamaica, Guyana and the Bahamas. The international scene is also abuzz, with the artist confirming a performance in Kenya in 2025. Kartel acknowledged his deep connection with his African fans, declaring: “The people of Kenya consider me one of their own.” A Kenyan fan even expressed excitement about his performance, comparing his arrival to a monumental event, highlighting the immense love for the artist in Africa.
Kartel was released from prison on July 31 after the Jamaican Court of Appeal ruled that he and three co-accused would not face a retrial on their murder charges, ending a 13-year chapter of trials and convictions.
The global buzz surrounding Kartel has even attracted the attention of international stars such as Cardi B, who declared him her “favorite artist of all time” and expressed her desire to collaborate with him on the “perfect song”.
