Jamaican dancehall icon Vybz Kartel has officially pulled out of the One Caribbean Music Festival (OCMF), which was scheduled to take place tonight at the Queen’s Park Savannah in Port of Spain, Trinidad. The artist’s team cited non-fulfillment of contractual obligations as the reason for his withdrawal, despite receiving a majority of the agreed payment.
In a statement Kartel’s management confirmed that the artist—real name Adidja Palmer—would not be performing. “Despite numerous efforts to resolve the issues over the past couple of months, the promoter was unable to fulfil the stipulated requirements as outlined in the performance agreement,” the statement said.
According to promoters, Kartel was contracted for a performance fee of USD $1.35 million, of which $950,000 was paid directly to him and another $150,000 to his legal representative. However, the remaining balance could not be paid in full due to “legal and financial regulations in Trinidad and Tobago” that blocked the final cash disbursement, according to OCMF organizers.
The artist’s management stated that their commitment to fans but insisted they could not participate in an event “where the organisers have not honoured their basic contractual obligations.”
The OCMF organizing team responded with a public apology to fans and confirmed that the festival would go on as planned. “While this sudden and disappointing development is beyond the control of the organisers, OCMF 2025 will proceed as planned,” read the statement.
Following Kartel’s announcement, Shake It To Max singer Moliy has also pulled out according to a statement released by her team.
Another major act has pulled out of the One Caribbean Music Festival (OCMF) 2025, intensifying public scrutiny on the embattled event. Ghanaian-American singer Moliy, known for her breakout hit “Sad Gurlz Luv Money,” has officially withdrawn from the lineup, following Vybz Kartel’s earlier exit over unpaid fees.
In a statement issued by her management team Wondergirl & Co. on May 31, Moliy expressed disappointment and frustration at the festival’s handling of artist relations. The statement reads:
“MOLIY arrived in Trinidad ready and excited to perform, but since landing, her team has not received any communication from the festival organizers. Combined with their failure to meet key contractual obligations, this has made it impossible for the performance to proceed.”
Moliy’s team emphasized their commitment to professionalism and respect in future partnerships:
“While this is deeply disappointing, MOLIY and her team remain committed to working with partners who value professionalism and mutual respect.”
Moliy also shared her heartfelt sentiments toward her Caribbean fan base, especially in Trinidad & Tobago:
“She was truly looking forward to connecting with her Trinbagonian fan base and hopes to return to T&T at the right time and under the right circumstances to Shake It To the Max.”
Despite the setback, the festival boasts an impressive lineup, including Chronic Law, Malie Donn, Rvssian, The Ruffcut Band, Moliy, and Sizzla Kalonji, who were either already on the island or en route.
The show is set to begin at 9:00 PM tonight. Patrons were encouraged to attend and enjoy what organizers described as “an unforgettable night of Caribbean music and unity.”
Ticket Refunds Available
In light of the cancellation, ticketing partner Frontline Ticketing issued its own statement offering refunds to customers who no longer wish to attend. “If you purchased your ticket on Frontline Ticketing and choose not to attend the event, you are welcome to apply for a refund directly through our platform,” the company stated. Refunds will be processed upon application through the official site, but customers were warned not to initiate chargebacks, which will be blocked.
Ticket Prices and Fan Costs
Ticket prices for the event ranged from TTD $670 for general admission to TTD $5,000 for backstage access, which included ultra-premium perks such as on-stage viewing and meet-and-greets. Many fans reportedly purchased VIP and VVIP tiers, lured by the chance to see Vybz Kartel live in Trinidad for the first time since being granted travel permission.
