NEW YORK – Dancehall icon Vybz Kartel is making headlines as he prepares for his first U.S. performance in over 20 years at Reggae Fest in Brooklyn, this weekend.

His appearance comes on the heels of his recent release from prison, which has sparked excitement among fans eager to see him perform live.

The Countdown to Reggae Fest

In a candid conversation with FOX 5’s Lisa Evers, Kartel expressed his eagerness to connect with his American audience again, stating, “I have to pinch myself—literally.” He emphasized that he is in a good place and shared insights about his health and future performances.

Kartel has hinted that fans can expect an unforgettable experience from his live shows, though he cautioned that they may come with a premium price tag.

About Reggae Fest

This year’s Reggae Fest will be held at the Barclays Center, promising an electrifying atmosphere as fans gather to witness Kartel’s return. The festival, founded by event promoter C.J. Milan in 2015, has expanded globally, showcasing a vibrant celebration of dancehall culture.

Following an initial sell-out on April 11, a second show has been added for April 12, with tickets priced around $250, opening doors at 7 p.m.

A Nostalgic Performance

Many fans are hoping to hear Kartel’s 2009 track “Brooklyn,” which pays homage to the borough’s Jamaican roots and robust spirit. The song resonates particularly with the Caribbean community in New York.

Background on Vybz Kartel’s Legal Troubles

Vybz Kartel, born Adidja Palmer, faced legal turmoil when he was arrested in 2011 for the murder of Clive “Lizard” Williams. His conviction in 2014 was controversial and based largely on witness testimony and digital evidence. After years of appeals, the UK’s Privy Council overturned his conviction in March 2024, pointing to juror misconduct. By July 2024, a Jamaican court decided against a retrial, which paved the way for his release.

Health Challenges During Imprisonment

Throughout his time in prison, Kartel faced serious health issues, including a diagnosis of Graves’ Disease, which severely affected his thyroid. He described the deterioration of his health, saying, “I was fading away,” and expressed concerns over the prison conditions and their impact on his well-being.

Personal Life and Family

Kartel is engaged to Sidem Ozturk, with whom he shares a strong bond that inspired his recent EP True Religion. The couple got engaged in 2022 during a visit, and while they refer to each other as husband and wife, official wedding plans remain undisclosed.

Kartel is also a father to several children, including sons Likkle Vybz and Likkle Addi, who are following in their father’s musical footsteps. They appeared alongside him in his interview, sharing insights into his parenting style.

Future Projects

Since his release, Kartel has re-entered the music scene, attending events such as the 2024 Grammy Awards and receiving accolades like a Lifetime Achievement Award at the MOBO Awards. He is actively working on new music, teasing collaborations with notable figures like DJ Khaled.

“Khaled is a top chef—always cooking,” Kartel mentioned, hinting at exciting projects to come.