Bounty Killer Brings Kingston to Brooklyn in Epic U.S. Return at Barclays Center

Akeeile Harris
6 days ago
3 min read

The Warlord returned to U.S. stages after more than 15 years, delivering over three decades of hits in a meticulously crafted set. Aidonia, Mavado, and Masicka mesmerized the crowd, while surprise cameos from Dexta Daps, Elephant Man, Charly Black, Jr Reid, Richie Stephens, and more pushed the energy to the max. Another sold-out showcase expertly curated by CJ Milan’s Reggae Fest Tour

Bounty Killer’s historuc U.S. return lights up Barclays Center (Photo: Barclays Center)

Dancehall giant Bounty Killer made a powerful return to U.S. stages for the first time in over 15 years, electrifying a sold-out crowd at the Barclays Center in Brooklyn, New York, on Saturday night.

The energy was high from early, with international DJ Ricky Platinum delivering an energetic warm-up set as the venue steadily filled to capacity. Hosting duties were handled by popular Jamaican selector Boom Boom, who not only hyped the crowd but also set the tone for a night steeped in dancehall legacy and unity.

Boom Boom introduced two of dancehall’s most iconic figures and Alliance alumni—Aidonia and Mavado. Aidonia charged the stage with hits like “Trigger It Work,” “Yeah Yeah,” and “Nuh Boring Gyal,” commanding the audience with his usual fire.

The Warlord delivered a powerhouse performance spanning over three decades of hits (Photo: Barclays Center)

Mavado followed with an explosive set, delivering back-to-back anthems including “Gangsta for Life,” “Weh Dem A Do,” “Hope and Pray,” and many more. The Gully God also surprised the audience by bringing out Charly Black, who thrilled fans with party favorites like “Rich This Year” and the global hit “Party Animal.”

Next up was Masicka, whom Bounty Killer recently described as “one of the biggest things in dancehall.” He didn’t disappoint. Performing bangers like “Tyrant,” “Whites,” and “20 Matic,” Masicka showed exactly why he’s cementing his place among the genre’s elite.

Then came the moment everyone had been waiting for. Bounty Killer, dressed in a custom-tailored collared suit, took the stage for a powerhouse performance that lasted over an hour. Backed by a live band and with his entire set curated by acclaimed English-Jamaican producer Jazzwad, the Warlord delivered a masterclass in stagecraft.

He journeyed through his endless catalogue with raw energy and precision, firing up the crowd with classics like “Can’t Believe Mi Eyes,” "Look Into My Eyes", “Eagle and Di Hawk,” “Lodge,” "Fed Up", “Bullet Proof Skin,” and the spiritually resonant “Seek God.” More recent singles like “Firm and Strong” also made the setlist, showcasing a career that spans over three decades.

Throughout the night, Bounty brought out a star-studded list of cameos. Dexta Daps, his fellow Seaview Gardens native, had the ladies screaming with hits like “Slow Motion” (his collab with Bounty) and “Shabba Madda Pot.”

Veteran icons added to the nostalgic flavor of the night. Richie Stephens joined Bounty for a special rendition of Tony Rebel’s “Fresh Vegetable,” while the “One Blood” singer Junior Reid brought spiritual vibes and commanding presence. Elephant Man, the Energy Gad, sent the venue into a frenzy with hits like “Signal Di Plane” and his collab with Killer, “How We Do It.”

Adding a personal touch, Bounty welcomed his son Major Myjah on stage for a short set. Killer then called on I-Octane to perform their 2012 anthem “Badmind Dem A Pree.” Octane kept the emotional energy flowing with heartfelt performances of “Lose A Friend” and “Buss A Blank,” forging a deep connection with the audience.

The cameos continued with a mix of veterans and emerging acts, including Kiprich, Ninja Kid, Iwaata, Bounty's protégé Willful Skillful, and New York-based KKrytical, all of whom brought their own flair to the unforgettable night.

Expertly curated by top American promoter CJ Milan under her Reggae Fest Tour brand, the event was a testament to the enduring power of dancehall and the unifying force of music. Milan, known for her previous Vybz Kartel-themed events, once again proved her expertise in bringing authentic Jamaican culture to international stages.