Vybz Kartel is being hailed for a stellar performance at the Barclays Center in Brooklyn on Friday night.
The dancehall icon gave a performance in front of a packed audience, showcasing a 2-hour gig where he showcased his sons, mother, Rvssian, Spice, and Busta Rhymes, among others. Alongside the surprising guest appearances, several notable personalities were present, including Buju Banton, Safaree Samuels, Stefflon Don, and Cardi B.
When Vybz Kartel stepped onto the stage donning a white fur coat, loud cheers erupted from his devoted fans filling the entire venue with excitement. This marked the first time in over two decades that the Jamaican deejay performed on stage in the United States.
Kartel kicked off his set by belting out one of his timeless hits, “Locked Up (Remix)” featuring Akon. The deejay proceeded to deliver numerous other popular tracks, captivating the audience who eagerly sang along with every lyric.
Cardi B shared several clips of herself clad in a raunchy outfit while dancing in the VIP section with her friends. “Never seen it this pack,” she wrote in reference to the massive crowd inside the Barclays Center. Dancehall artist Konshens shared that he got goosebumps watching the clips on YouTube. “A watch it pan youtube inna traffic, nah lie…. when di dawg seh ‘the king is in motherf***in tooown buddu bye buddu buddu bye buddu bye’ [cold emojis] #DANCEHALL @vybzkartel,” he wrote.
Vybz Kartel performance with Spice
Buju Banton shared an image of himself greeting Vybz Kartel backstage a sign of unity and admiration between the two dancehall legends.
In one segment Kartel became emotional while performing hit new single “God Is The Greatest” prompting MC Nuffy and Skatta Burrell to join him on stage in a moment of support. “Well, today is a new day, Give thanks fi life, All praises to di Lord, mi safe and mi sanctify, Nah mek dem stress mi, Mi a hold a vibe, Wid Red Boom, TJ and Moonie, mi bonified,” Kartel sings. The song, a fitting soundtrack for Kartel’s return, was released earlier this year after the deejay got his US visa reinstated for the first time in two decades.
“Good thing God got you because this is what you deserve and more,” Kartel’s fiancée, Sidem Ozturk, wrote. “These are the backgrounds you suit. This is the lifestyle, and better, that fits you best. You are an amazing person and you are a blessing in my life; as well as many others.”