DJ Vlad has never shied away from controversy, and his latest interview with dancehall star Mr. Vegas, released September 6, goes straight at one of reggae’s biggest taboos: sexuality in Jamaica’s music scene.
When Vlad asked if there could ever be an openly gay reggae artist, Mr. Vegas didn’t dodge. “I don’t think Jamaican artists are there yet, will they get there I don’t know. I have seen where the female have a good relationship with that community. Back in the days I don’t think someone who [is] flamboyant or so open could walk around Jamaica and not get criticized,” he said.
That’s when Vlad dropped the line that’s been sparking conversation online: “I can guarantee you there are a bunch of popular reggae artists that are secretly gay in terms of men. I am sure of it. Gay people gravitate towards the arts, it is what it is.”
Vegas didn’t dismiss it. Instead, he leaned into the possibility. “I wouldn’t put it past what you are saying because there are more effeminate behaviors with some of the most treasured artist in Jamaica. It’s just the society I think. If you are really loved and idolized then you can behave a certain way and the fans will let it pass but wha[t] you are saying can be true based on the behavioral patterns.”
Vlad pressed further, adding, “Sure they might have some kids for show but secretly they have a boyfriend that’s just quietly being kept that way.”
Dancehall has long faced criticism for homophobic lyrics, even as its stars influence fashion, language, and culture far beyond the island.
In April 2006, TIME magazine published a scathing report on Jamaica’s treatment of LGBTQ+ people, labeling the island “the most homophobic place on earth.” The story opened with the case of Brian, a gay Jamaican who alleged that dancehall star Buju Banton led a group of men that beat him and five others near the singer’s Kingston studio. “I still go to church,” Brian told the magazine. “Every Sunday I ask why this happened to me.” The charges against Banton were eventually dismissed, a decision that left Brian broken and fearful.
The piece detailed a wave of brutal attacks and murders, including the killings of activists Brian Williamson and Steve Harvey. In one chilling incident, a mob celebrated over Williamson’s mutilated body. Another gay teenager was nearly lynched by classmates after his father incited them. “Jamaica is the worst any of us has ever seen,” said Rebecca Schleifer of Human Rights Watch, who authored a report condemning the violence.
TIME pointed to dancehall music as a major driver of hostility, citing lyrics like Banton’s infamous 1992 track “Boom Bye-Bye”, which called for shooting and burning gay men.
Banton has since dismissed “Boom Bye-Bye” from his catalog.
