Vybz Kartel’s explosive return to the United States is considered to be one of the most iconic moments in the history of dancehall events in the US. His concerts have ignited a wave of excitement among reggae and dancehall fans, causing his recent musical releases to soar up the digital streaming platforms.
Kartel cemented his status as a powerful force in dancehall over the weekend sold-out shows at the Barclays Center in Brooklyn. The 2-day event, marking his first US appearance in 20 years, made international headlines for the show-stopping performances, star-studded lineup of local and international artistes, and massive turnout, which included various elite celebrities.
The impact of the event continues to be felt worldwide as his songs now dominate the charts. Following his high-energy shows, Vybz Kartel’s tracks “Str8 Vybz” and “Ignite The World” have soared to the top of Apple Music’s Reggae category, claiming the number one and three spots, respectively for the most streamed videos.
His songs have been gaining momentum in streams following his release from prison and received an additional boost with the release of music videos for some of the hits he released during his incarceration. The latest surge reflects the unwavering loyalty of his global fan base and the significant impact of his weekend event, which was a cultural milestone.
Music videos for Ignite The World and Miami Vice Episode, released during his incarceration, have continued to captivate audiences. His success on the charts continues with his latest hit God Is The Greatest, which takes No. 4 on iTunes’s most downloaded reggae songs. Additionally, his song Brooklyn Anthem, a 2009 classic that pays tribute to the host borough, has made a significant comeback on the iTunes chart. The song, according to Sleek Jamaica, entered the top 20 most-downloaded reggae songs.
With his digital dominance and live performances capturing the hearts of millions, Vybz Kartel’s return is setting the stage for what could be one of the most memorable chapters in Caribbean music history.