“Better songs coming out… Vybz Kartel coming out of jail.” That’s how DJ Calli B sums up the reason behind Dancehall’s growing popularity in the United States.
The Jamaican-born, New York-based DJ, who recently closed out the Sandz Caribbean Music Festival NYC World Tour, says the genre is in a “very, very big resurgence” thanks to stronger music, fresh talent, and a loyal global fanbase.
“You know, the rise of a lot of artists such as Masicka, Skeng, Skillibeng—and a bunch of others—has really helped push the music across the diaspora,” Calli B said during an exclusive interview. “It’s crossing over to the mainstream very quickly.”
Calli B, who started his journey as a DJ on Irie Jam Radio (93.5 FM) while in college, recalled his early days “just testing things out… doing small parties here and there.” Over time, his gigs grew from dorm rooms to major clubs and eventually international stages. With a marketing degree in his back pocket and a passion for music, Calli B turned his side hustle into a global career.
Though as a Jamaican, he could be labeled as a Dancehall DJ, he prefers a broader title: “I wouldn’t box it in. I play all genres, and I play for all demographics,” he said. “But yes, my background is Jamaican, and Dancehall is home.”
Having played multiple times at Sandz, Calli B described the New York edition as “jam packed” and full of energy. “It’s every time. It’s the best experience,” he said. “Sandz is a staple property from Jamaica that’s crossed over to New York and beyond. It’s only getting bigger.”
Reflecting on the DJ roster at the event, he gave props to Bronx-based RFB DJs, as well as crowd favorites Kevin Crown and Brandon Duke, all of whom he said “hyped up the place” with sets that mixed Dancehall with Afrobeats, Hip Hop and more.
With Billboard trending songs like “Shake To The Max” climbing the Billboard charts and Vybz Kartel’s sold out arena shows, DJ Calli B believes these are just some of the evidence that Dancehall in its authentic form is once again claiming its global spotlight. “Dancehall is in a good space now,” he said.
