Vybz Kartel Is the Artiste of the Year: The Unmatched Return of a Dancehall Legend

A historic run of sold-out arenas - Barclays, the O2, Paris, Toronto, Sumfest, to name a few, undeniable global demand, and a coronation as the new King of Dancehall all proved that his dominance is stronger than ever.

Phenomenal, sensational, historic - every superlative fits. It was clear that the defining moment of the year would be his return to the stage after 13 years behind bars, following last year’s New Year’s Eve Freedom Street concert. However, what unfolded went far beyond expectations. Vybz Kartel delivered an extraordinary run, reaffirming his status as dancehall’s greatest forever.

The Dancehall Worl’ Boss made undeniable history, selling out iconic venues across the globe, including a three-peat at Brooklyn’s Barclays Center, two sold-out nights at the O2 Arena in London, and the Accor Arena in Paris. By October, he added three sold-out nights at Toronto’s Scotiabank Arena, cementing one of the most remarkable touring runs the genre has ever seen.

In between those dates, the historic streak continued with packed houses at venues such as State Farm Arena in Atlanta, Ziggo Dome in Amsterdam, Amerant Bank Arena in Florida, CFG Bank Arena in Baltimore, Co-op Live Arena in Manchester, and the BP Pulse Arena in Birmingham. Every venue sold out, with estimates suggesting over 400,000 tickets sold across the year, a number that has not been officially confirmed, but still an extraordinary accomplishment for any artiste, especially within dancehall.

Kartel’s historic year didn’t stop on stage. In February, he received the prestigious MOBO Impact Award, regained his U.S. visa, and officially set up base in Florida, marking a powerful new era in his already legendary career. In July, he was crowned the new King of Dancehall on Night One of Reggae Sumfest, cementing his position.

We accompanied Kartel’s journey throughout the year, witnessing every move, every moment, and every milestone. With an undeniable run and unbelievable achievements, he has written a chapter that may never be duplicated by another dancehall artiste. The world waited for him - and the world has now witnessed the truly iconic figure that he is. The Artiste of the Year.