Dancehall superstar Vybz Kartel is expressing high hopes for the reinstatement of his U.S. visa, a long-anticipated move that could significantly bolster his international presence. Kartel, along with several other artists whose visas were revoked by the U.S. Embassy in the early 2000s with no public explanation, has spent over a decade unable to perform in one of dancehall’s most critical markets. Now, the “World Boss” is looking to re-enter the United States, bolstered by a wave of international demand and confidence in his clean slate. “I definitely think I will,” Kartel said recently in an interview with Anthony Miller. “People love me… petitions [are] there to push the Vybz Kartel brand universally.” His aspirations align with a potential Grammy win as he celebrates a nomination for Party With Me, his album up for the 67th Grammy Award for Best Reggae Album.
With his return to the U.S. potentially on the horizon, Kartel has ambitious plans to expand his reach through a global tour, hitting key markets in the Caribbean, Europe, South America, and Asia. “[We’re] taking the show on the road,” he said, underscoring the scale and reach he envisions for his Freedom Street concert series. It’s a bold plan that speaks to Kartel’s sustained popularity and the worldwide appeal of his brand, particularly with fans in the United Kingdom, where he says ticket sales have soared. The upcoming tour would not only allow him to reconnect with audiences abroad but also “ring in the New Year” with a show to celebrate his resurgence.
Kartel’s personal life has also drawn attention, as he hinted at deepening his commitment to long-time partner Sidem Öztürk. After confirming that “one ring [was] already on her finger,” he added that another ring is on the way, teasing a more formal arrangement around the time of his next Birthday, January 7th. This glimpse into Kartel’s relationship suggests that family remains central to his focus, even as he revs up his career comeback.
In addition to looking forward, Kartel also commented on the comparisons with fellow artist Alkaline, often considered a rival in dancehall circles. While Kartel remains a trendsetter in the genre, he clarified there’s no ill will between the two without directly acknowledging him, stating, “Everybody knows Vybz Kartel set the trend…there’s no bad blood either. I’m a grown man. So we hold no grudges, and we don’t eat fudges.” This mature response points to a new phase in his career, one where he’s focused on possibly bridging gaps and setting the stage for the next generation of dancehall.
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