Despite the ongoing debate about who holds the crown, Vybz Kartel has acknowledged Beenie Man as one of the dancehall’s top five icons. Vybz Kartel, born Adidja Azim Palmer, shared his list during an interview with American podcaster and internet personality DJ Akademiks. Vybz Kartel was discussing why he chose to do music when the conversation led to his legacy and impact.
The deejay expressed that he chose to become a dancehall artiste because of his love for the music and the greatness that accompanies it. Vybz Kartel’s successful career spans decades, as he has dominated the genre since the early 2000s.
The Jamaican deejay was asked where he believes he ranks among the greatest dancehall artists who impacted the genre and influenced the culture of dancehall music.
“I think I rank in the top 5,” he said. When asked who ranked above him, he paused to think and listed Ninja Man, Buju Banton, and Bounty Killer.
There was another brief pause, and the host asked him if Bob Marley was on the list. Indicating that Bob Marley is a legend, Vybz Kartel reminded the host he was listing dancehall artists. The host asked him if Beenie Man was also ranked above him, and Vybz Kartel gave an affirmative answer.
The clip has garnered amusing responses from social media users who joked that Beenie Man would now feel happy after going back and forth online about still owning the King of Dancehall title.
Watch the interview with Vybz Kartel below:
