Dancehall superstar Vybz Kartel scores his second silver certification in the U.K. with his 2011 hit Summer Time, reaffirming his status as a global force in music—even amid one of the genre’s most compelling comeback stories.
Certified silver by the British Phonographic Industry (BPI) on Friday, June 27, the breezy anthem has officially sold and streamed over 200,000 units in the United Kingdom. Produced by Swedish hitmaker Adde Instrumentals and released through Tads Records, Summer Time has long been hailed as one of dancehall’s most iconic seasonal records. Its vibrant music video, which has racked up more than 111 million views on YouTube, continues to capture new audiences, particularly during the warmer months when the track sees a resurgence.
This latest accolade follows Kartel’s 2023 BPI silver certification for Fever, which also went gold in the U.S., underscoring his transatlantic appeal. Yet, Summer Time‘s renewed success comes at a pivotal moment in Kartel’s life and career. After serving over a decade behind bars for a 2014 murder conviction, the artist—born Adidja Palmer—was released in July 2024 after his conviction was overturned due to juror misconduct. His freedom has sparked a resurgence, led by the launch of his Worl’ Boss Tour, a MOBO Award and a Grammy-nominated album, Party With Me.
“Summer Time’s silver certification is more than just a plaque—it’s a symbol of resilience, longevity, and the genre’s ability to defy odds,” noted one industry insider. With several sold-out concerts across the Caribbean, North America, and more forecasted on the horizon, and the summer sun once again heating up the airwaves, Kartel’s timeless hit is poised to soundtrack yet another season of celebration—and a triumphant chapter in his storied career.
