Vybz Kartel has identified Alkaline as one of the artistes who could eventually succeed him as King of Dancehall, but University lecturer, ethnomusicologist and music historian Dr Dennis Howard believes the Vendetta deejay may not even want the title. While Kartel recently placed Alkaline firmly in Dancehall’s succession debate alongside Masicka and Malie Donn, Howard said he does not think the artiste cares much about coronations or chasing the crown, suggesting he is simply comfortable operating in his own lane.
“I don’t think Alkaline cares much about any coronation or title. He seems comfortable in his own lane doing his thing,” Howard said in a conversation with The STAR while weighing in on the growing debate surrounding who could one day inherit Dancehall’s most prestigious unofficial title. Howard also questioned whether Masicka, despite recognising his potential, has done enough to claim the crown. “Masicka has the potential, but I don’t know if he is there yet,” he added.
Kartel reignited the succession conversation during a recent appearance on Entertainment Report, where he was asked whether Masicka could potentially take over when his own reign eventually comes to an end. The Dancehall icon gave the Genasyde deejay a strong endorsement, praising his lyrical ability, bravery and capacity to “actually DJ”, before naming him among the genre’s strongest candidates. When pressed for other names, Kartel also mentioned Alkaline and Malie Donn, praising the latter’s persona and image.
However, Howard believes becoming King of Dancehall requires far more than hit songs and a passionate fan base. According to the music historian, a true contender must possess lasting influence, a strong catalogue, global appeal, consistency, uniqueness and longevity. For now, Howard says Kartel remains “hands down” the most influential artiste in Dancehall, while insisting that the eventual decision over who wears the crown must ultimately be made by the people. Whether Alkaline wants the throne or not, however, his name is now firmly at the centre of one of Dancehall’s biggest debates.
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