Vybz Kartel Revives Jamaica’s Clubbing Energy With The Return

The inaugural staging brought an Asylum-era feel to the National Arena, with Usain Bolt among the crowd, while Fambo, selectors, artistes and street dancers lit up the night

Vybz Kartel during the inaugural event of The Return (Photo: Ashanie Braham)

Dancehall megastar Vybz Kartel kicked off his mission to bring Jamaica’s clubbing energy back to the forefront with the inaugural edition of The Return of The Building, held on Saturday, August 29, at the National Arena.

The event drew hundreds of patrons and a high-profile mix of attendees, including Jamaican sprint legend Usain Bolt, dancehall veterans Harry Toddler and Future Fambo, Shawn Storm, as well as female artistes Pamputtae, Ishawna and several other familiar faces.

Kartel also took the microphone from time to time, sending the crowd into a frenzy with verses from some of his iconic tracks, including “Wah Dat Fah.” Boom Boom was among the selectors keeping the energy high, bringing out Fambo and newcomer SheenWrks, who performed their collaboration “Give Thanks.” Fambo also delivered his street favourite “Red Light Pepper Light” alongside renowned street dancers, while Ricky Platinum, Rolexx, and MC Nuffy helped keep the crowd engaged throughout the night.

Patrons experienced an atmosphere reminiscent of the glory days of renowned Jamaican nightclubs such as Asylum, reacting to the songs, dancing and fully engaging with the selectors throughout the night. The concept placed the focus on bringing back the authentic inside-the-club dancehall experience and its energy, rather than simply revisiting music from the past.

Kartel’s vision extends beyond the inaugural staging, with plans to develop The Return into a series of pop-up events across Jamaica, with Montego Bay and Mandeville among the locations being considered.