Vybz Kartel to headline his first U.S show in over 20 years in New York

Vybz Kartel To Headline U.S. Show in Over 20 Years

Vybz Kartel is officially back and ready to reclaim his throne. After spending 13 years behind bars, the dancehall legend is celebrating his newfound freedom with a highly anticipated return to the U.S. concert stage. On April 11, Kartel will headline Brooklyn’s Barclays Center, marking his first solo performance in America in over two decades.

The concert, presented by Reggae Fest, is expected to be a historic moment for both Kartel and dancehall culture. Fans have been eagerly awaiting his return, and the announcement has already generated massive excitement.

Tickets for the event go on sale Thursday, March 6, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. ET.

Kartel expressed his gratitude and enthusiasm in a statement:

“This is a monumental moment for me and the culture. To be back on U.S. soil performing for my fans is a blessing that I don’t take lightly. The wait is finally over. New York, get ready.”

From Prison to Global Stardom: Kartel’s Triumphant Comeback

Kartel’s return to the U.S. stage comes after the overturning of his 2014 murder conviction due to juror misconduct. The ruling led to his release from prison last year, sending shockwaves through the music industry. His freedom was met with widespread celebrations, from the streets of Kingston, Jamaica, to London and New York.

Since then, he has wasted no time reclaiming his status as one of dancehall’s most influential figures.

Vybz Kartel’s Road to Redemption

Kartel kicked off his return with a performance at the Freedom Street Concert on New Year’s Eve, a symbolic moment that marked his first major public appearance since his release. The event, held in Kingston, Jamaica, was a celebration of freedom and a statement of resilience.

He then made his way back into the U.S. music scene after his visa was reinstated, a move that allowed him to attend the 2025 Grammy Awards in Los Angeles. His latest album, Party With Me, earned a nomination for Best Reggae Album, further solidifying his influence on the genre.

While he didn’t perform at the Grammys, fans in the U.S. won’t have to wait much longer to see him live. The Barclays Center show promises to be an electrifying experience, celebrating his legacy and impact on dancehall music worldwide.

What to Expect from the Barclays Center Show

Kartel’s return to the U.S. stage is expected to be nothing short of legendary. Known for his high-energy performancesand ability to command a crowd, the dancehall star is set to deliver an unforgettable night.

With a career spanning over two decades, Vybz Kartel’s catalog is filled with timeless hits, including:

• “Fever”
• “Clarks”
• “Summertime”
• “Ramping Shop” (feat. Spice)
• “Kartel Forever”
• “Mhm Hm”
• “Come Home”

His setlist is expected to feature a mix of classic anthems and new material, showcasing his evolution as an artist. Fans can also look forward to possible surprise guest appearances from fellow dancehall and reggae stars.

Vybz Kartel’s 2025 Global Takeover

Kartel’s comeback isn’t limited to the U.S. His performance schedule for 2025 is already packed, proving that his influence extends far beyond Jamaica.

One of his most highly anticipated appearances will be at the Wireless Festival in the UK, where he will join Burna Boyas a special guest on the festival’s final night. Wireless will be headlined by Drake across all three nights, making it one of the biggest events of the year.

Additionally, Kartel was recently honored at the MOBO Awards in the UK, where he received the Impact Award from longtime collaborator Spice. The event was a special moment for dancehall, with Kartel performing “Fever” and “Clarks” to an audience that erupted in cheers.

Vybz Kartel’s Music: A Lasting Impact

Beyond performances, Kartel continues to dominate the airwaves with new music. In recent months, he has dropped:

• “Amout”
• “Str8 Vybz”
• “God Is The Greatest”
• A 10-year anniversary edition of his album Viking (Vybz Is King)

This steady stream of releases shows that Kartel’s creativity remains unmatched, and his ability to connect with fans through music is stronger than ever.

How to Get Tickets for Vybz Kartel’s Barclays Center Concert

Presale and General Ticket Information

Presale tickets for the Barclays Center concert went live on March 4, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. ET.

General admission tickets will be available starting March 6, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. ET.

Fans can purchase tickets through:

• Ticketmaster
• Barclays Center Box Office
• Official Reggae Fest outlets

Kartel’s return to the U.S. is expected to draw huge demand, so fans are advised to act quickly to secure their tickets.

Why This Concert Matters for Dancehall Culture

Vybz Kartel’s return to the U.S. stage isn’t just a concert—it’s a cultural moment. After years of legal battles and uncertainty, he is finally getting the opportunity to perform for his loyal U.S. fanbase.

His impact on dancehall, reggae, and global music is undeniable. From shaping the sound of modern dancehall to influencing artists across multiple genres, Kartel’s legacy is one that continues to grow.

For fans, this concert represents more than just music—it’s a celebration of resilience, perseverance, and cultural pride.

A Historic Night for Dancehall

April 11, 2025, at Barclays Center will mark a new chapter in Vybz Kartel’s career—a moment of triumph, celebration, and pure dancehall energy.

For over 20 years, fans in the U.S. have waited to see him perform live on American soil. Now, that long-awaited moment is finally here.

From his early days in Portmore to becoming a global icon, Kartel’s journey has been nothing short of extraordinary. His return to the stage is a reminder of his influence, talent, and unbreakable spirit.