Dancehall icon Vybz Kartel made his return to the Jamaican stage on Night One of Reggae Sumfest 2025, where he was officially crowned King of Dancehall by both the people and the festival’s organizers in the early hours of Saturday, July 19.
The appearance marked his first live performance in Jamaica since the Freedom Street concert on New Year’s Eve—just months after his release from prison in July 2024, following the overturning of a 2014 murder conviction.
Kartel stepped on stage sporting a black, green, and gold Adidas Jamaica national football jersey, oversized black sunglasses, and layers of diamond-encrusted chains. Two of the most prominent pendants read “GAZA NATION” and “THE WORL’ BOSS,” while his wrists gleamed with a diamond bracelet and a massive ring.
The night’s most symbolic moment came when fellow dancehall star Spice, acting as crown bearer, placed a red velvet crown—adorned with gold trim and multicolored jewels—on Kartel’s head as he sat on a white-and-gold throne. The crown bore a striking resemblance to the one worn by King Charles III, the very monarch who signed the Privy Council’s decision that ultimately led to Kartel’s acquittal.
Before receiving his crown, Kartel reminded fans in a previous interview that his claim to the throne was never in question: “I was King of the Dancehall before prison,” he said.
Since regaining his freedom, the deejay has launched the Worl Boss Tour, performing to packed arenas and festival crowds across North America and Europe. His next stop is Reggae Fest Baltimore on July 26, followed by a major return to New York for Reggae Fest Massive at the Barclays Center on August 29.
