Vybz Kartel Set To Return To The Stage Months After Prison Release

Nearly six months after being released from prison due to an overturned murder conviction, Jamaican dancehall sensation Vybz Kartel is set to return to the stage.

Kartel, whose real name is Adidja Palmer, spent 13 years behind bars after being convicted of the 2011 murder of Clive “Lizard” Williams. However, earlier this year, the controversial artist was acquitted, paving the way for his highly anticipated comeback.

Vybz Kartel will perform a blowout concert on New Year's Eve at Kingston's National Stadium, which holds 35,000 people, marking his grand return to the music scene.

The popular dancehall artist, known for collaborations with global icons like Eminem, Rihanna, and Jay-Z, was sentenced to prison in 2014 after being convicted in connection with Williams' death. According to court records, Kartel allegedly gave two unlicensed guns to Williams and another man to hold for him. A dispute over the missing firearms eventually led to Williams’ death.

Despite the gravity of the case, Williams’ body has never been found, adding an air of mystery to the entire ordeal, as reported by Fox 5 New York. The acquittal of Kartel earlier this year has reignited conversations surrounding the case, but for now, the focus is on his return to the stage and the excitement surrounding his New Year’s Eve performance.

Despite pleading not guilty, Vybz Kartel and three co-defendants—Shawn Campbell, Kahira Jones, and Andre St John—were convicted of murder and sentenced to life imprisonment, according to the BBC. Kartel's sentence was later reduced to 32-and-a-half years, as reported by The New York Times.

After appealing to the Jamaican appeals court, he took the case to the Judicial Committee of the Privy Council in London, the highest appellate court for Jamaica and other countries, including the Bahamas and Grenada. In March, the Privy Council overturned the conviction, citing alleged juror misconduct.

Kartel, who spent 13 years behind bars before being acquitted earlier this year, is set to perform a major concert on New Year’s Eve at Kingston's National Stadium in Jamaica, which holds around 35,000 people.

“The importance of this concert is a whole generation of people have never seen Vybz Kartel perform,” he told The New York Times.

The 48-year-old artist also hyped up the performance to The Gleaner, a Jamaican newspaper. “It’s giving Madonna energy, it’s giving world-class because it’s a full, four-corner, almost 360 stage vibe,” he said. “The lighting, the sound, the lasers, the surprises — it’s going to be like an NFL Super Bowl halftime show 2.0… It’s an experience you don’t want to miss.”

Kartel, who has worked with artists like Eminem and Rihanna, is nominated for Best Reggae Album at the 2025 Grammy Awards, having released dozens of songs while incarcerated. His nominated album, "Party with Me," was released in May.

Citizens attending the highly anticipated Freedom Street concert at the National Stadium in Kingston tomorrow are being advised that no parking will be allowed at the venue. To ensure smooth traffic flow, a one-way system will be strictly enforced.

Shuttle parks have been set up at Heroes Park, 8 West King’s House Road, and Jamaica College to accommodate concertgoers. Motorists traveling along Mountain View Avenue and Arthur Wint Drive may experience disruptions to normal traffic before, during, and after the event, so attendees are encouraged to plan accordingly.

Traffic personnel will be deployed along the roadways to help direct vehicles, and members of the public are urged to follow their instructions to avoid delays.

In addition to parking restrictions, patrons are reminded that certain items will not be allowed inside the stadium for safety reasons. Prohibited items include firearms, explosives, knives, large igloos, glass bottles, large umbrellas, and scissors. Concertgoers are encouraged to comply with these regulations to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone.

Despite a tumultuous 2024, Drake fans have plenty to look forward to in 2025, including a potential "PARTYNEXTDOOR" collaboration album and Australian shows. However, some dedicated followers believe there's one last surprise in store before the year ends: speculation is swirling that Drake might perform at Vybz Kartel's New Year's Eve party in Kingston, Jamaica.

The star-studded event will also feature Skillibeng, Spice, Popcaan, Tommy Lee, and more, although Drake hasn't been officially announced as a performer. While these rumors should be taken with caution, recent hints have fueled the excitement. One concert team member mentioned "that person in Canada," though they couldn't disclose a name, leading many to believe it could be Drake.

Given his past support for Kartel and his love for dancehall, this possibility doesn’t seem too far-fetched.