Vybz Kartel announces first post-prison concert

Vybz Kartel, the Jamaican Dancehall legend, has announced that his first music concert since serving 13 years in prison will be held in December 2024.

In an interview with Jamaica’s TVJ’s ER, Kartel expressed his joy for the upcoming event, which will initially take place in Jamaica with plans for further venues worldwide.

Kartel stated that he had heard the pleas of his fans for a comeback concert and was delighted to make it happen.

He humorously remarked that fans might need to consider selling “an organ or two” to attend the much-anticipated event. The artist conveyed his gratitude to supporters across Jamaica, the Caribbean, and beyond, expressing anticipation for the concert’s success.

“I’ve heard the cries of my fans for a comeback concert, and we’re making it happen,” Kartel stated.

The artiste said details about the concert will be provided in the coming days.

Fans were eagerly anticipating his return to live performances soon after his release from prison on July 31.

The Jamaica Court of Appeal ordered Vybz Kartel and his three co-defendants to be freed after years of incarceration, following a unanimous decision on July 31 not to order a retrial in the murder case of Clive “Lizard” Williams, whose body was never found.

The court’s decision was based on sufficient evidence suggesting that a retrial could negatively impact Kartel’s health and financial well-being.

“We conclude that the interest of justice does not require a new trial to be ordered,” the court read.

The court said that there was sufficient evidence to suggest that Kartel would not be able to complete a potentially longer sentence if there were to be a retrial.

The court cited the “psychological and financial effects that it would have on the appellants,” referring to Kartel’s health.

Kartel, along with Shawn Campbell, Kahira Jones, and Andre St. John, had been imprisoned since their arrests in 2011 and subsequent 2014 conviction for Williams’ murder.

As preparations for the concert continue, Kartel remains optimistic about his musical career’s resurgence.

The announcement marks a significant turning point for the acclaimed artist, whose incarceration has been a central narrative in the dancehall music scene.

Fans worldwide are eagerly awaiting further updates and details regarding Vybz Kartel’s highly anticipated return to the stage in December.