Vybz Kartel, the undisputed King of Dancehall, is making his long-awaited return to the U.S. stage after more than two decades. On Friday, April 11, 2025, the Barclays Center in Brooklyn, NY, will be the epicenter of dancehall culture as Kartel headlines a historic concert curated by Reggae Fest. Presale tickets start on Tuesday, March 4th at 10:00 AM ET, with general sales opening Thursday, March 6th at 10:00 AM ET.
The first quarter of 2025 has been nothing short of explosive for Vybz Kartel. Since regaining his U.S. and UK visas in January, the dancehall icon has wasted no time reclaiming his global presence. After years of legal battles and speculation, Kartel is officially back on the international stage, and his return couldn’t be more impactful.
“This is a monumental occasion for me and for dancehall culture,” Kartel said in a statement. “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.”
Kartel’s presence in New York holds special significance, as the city has long been a stronghold for dancehall and reggae, serving as a cultural bridge between Jamaica and the international music scene. His last U.S. performance dates back to the early 2000s before his visa was revoked, making this a must-see event for dancehall lovers.
Reggae Fest CEO CJ Milan is equally hyped about the event, calling it a game-changing moment for dancehall. “This is going to be the biggest dancehall concert in U.S. history. To be at Barclays Center with the biggest dancehall artist in the world is epic!” Milan stated. “It’s about time dancehall gets the recognition it deserves. I’m very excited to have Vybz Kartel for his first U.S. show.”
With a legendary catalog spanning two decades, Kartel is expected to deliver a set packed with anthems like “Fever,” “Summertime,” “Clarks,” and “Romping Shop,” alongside new music from his latest project.
In February 2025, Kartel made his first return to the U.S. in over 20 years for the Grammy Awards in Los Angeles, where he was nominated for Best Reggae Album. He later traveled to London for the MOBO Awards, receiving the prestigious Impact Award, introduced by fellow dancehall queen Spice. The event also marked his first major UK performance, where he delivered a show-stopping medley of his biggest hits.
The momentum continues as Kartel is also set to perform at London’s Wireless Festival on July 13, 2025, celebrating its 20th anniversary. He will share the stage with a powerhouse lineup featuring Drake, PARTYNEXTDOOR, Summer Walker, and Burna Boy.
On January 31, 2025, Kartel released the 10th-anniversary edition of his critically acclaimed album Viking (Vybz Is King) via Adidjahiem Records/TJ Records. The project breathes new life into his 2015 classic, featuring timeless bangers like “Unstoppable,” “Gon Get Better” (sampled by Fifth Harmony), “Dancehall,” and “Enchanting.” The anniversary edition also introduces seven fresh tracks, including “Amout,” “Str8 Vybz,” and “God Is The Greatest.”
Kartel’s return marks a pivotal moment for dancehall, amplifying the genre’s global resurgence. His presence at major international events, award nominations, and festival lineups prove that dancehall remains one of the most influential musical movements worldwide.
Get your tickets now and witness history in the making! Presale begins March 4 at 10:00 AM ET, and general public sales start March 6 at 10:00 AM ET.
Vybz Kartel – Amount
Vybz Kartel – Str8 Vybz
