The 10th anniversary edition of Vybz Kartel’s Viking (Vybz Is King), released on Friday, January 31, has soared to No. 1 on the U.S. Reggae iTunes chart. The deluxe, 11-track reissue, released via Adidjahiem Records/TJ Records, includes seven new songs, blending spiritual, energetic, and X-rated themes, such as “God Is the Greatest” and “Porn Flick” featuring Ishawna.
The album’s latest single, “Amout,” debuted at No. 1 on the YouTube Jamaica Chart last week, further solidifying Kartel’s dominance.
Originally released on January 13, 2015, while Kartel was incarcerated, Viking peaked at No. 3 on the Reggae Albums chart, producing hits like “Unstoppable” and “Gon Get Better,” which was later sampled by Fifth Harmony.
The album’s title, Viking, draws inspiration from the seafaring Scandinavian warriors of the late 8th to 11th centuries, who raided, traded, and settled across Europe, North America, the Middle East, and North Africa. Over time, the term “Viking” has evolved from its piracy origins to symbolize explorers and warriors. The Viking played an influential role in developing the English language and archaeology.
Kartel’s latest release comes at a pivotal moment, as he celebrates his first-ever Grammy nomination for Best Reggae Album with Party With Me. He was also named Jamaica’s top dancehall artist on Spotify for 2024. Reacting to the news, Kartel told WMV, “That is an amazing feeling.” At 48, he remains the oldest dancehall artist to dominate Jamaica’s streaming charts, with a career spanning over two decades.
Other notable names in Spotify Jamaica’s 2024 Top 10 include Chronic Law (No. 3), Masicka (No. 4), and newcomer RajahWild (No. 5), whose hit “GOGO” fueled his rise. International R&B star SZA ranks at No. 7, while The Weeknd rounds out the list at No. 10.
Kartel is set to compete at the February 2 Grammy Awards against Shenseea, Collie Buddz, The Wailers, and the Bob Marley: One Love soundtrack.
Listen to Viking here.
