Vybz Kartel has delivered a blunt assessment of modern Dancehall, arguing that while today’s generation of artistes can create an immediate impact in Jamaica, their music has yet to match the international reach of songs from his era. During his interview with Anthony Miller on Entertainment Report (ER), the Dancehall superstar was asked whether songs being made today are as good as those produced during his heyday. His answer was measured but revealing: “It depends. It’s having an immediate impact in Jamaica, but internationally, no. Not yet, though.”
Asked whether that represented a problem for Dancehall, Kartel was direct: “Yes, at this moment.” However, he remains confident that the issue can be addressed, declaring that “all problems can be solved”. When asked how, the self-proclaimed King of the Dancehall said he had already solved his own challenges, suggesting that the responsibility now lies with younger artistes to find their own answers.
“It’s up to the kids to solve their own problems,” Kartel said, while stressing that established artistes can still provide guidance. He encouraged the younger generation to focus on commercial viability, use social media effectively and find innovative ways to capture audiences. Still, Kartel could not resist backing his own catalogue, adding: “But, yeah, I think my music was the best.”
The comments are likely to spark another major debate about the direction of Dancehall, particularly as the genre continues to produce successful stars, viral hits and a new wave of artistes. For Kartel, however, local momentum alone is not enough. The challenge for the new generation is clear: turn Jamaican impact into lasting global success.
View this post on Instagram
