Vybz Kartel

Biography

Vybz Kartel – Biography
Name: Adidja Azim Palmer
Stage Name: Vybz Kartel
Date of Birth: January 7, 1976
Place of Birth: Kingston, Jamaica
Genres: Dancehall, Reggae
Years Active: 1993–present
Labels: Adidjahiem Records, Tads Records, VP Records

Early Life and Career Beginnings
Born in Kingston, Jamaica, Adidja Palmer—known globally as Vybz Kartel—grew up in the community of Waterford, Portmore. He attended Calabar High School before being expelled and continuing his education privately. A gifted lyricist from a young age, Kartel recorded his first single "Love Fat Woman" in 1993 under the name Adi Banton, a nod to his early influence, Buju Banton.

He soon adopted the moniker Vybz Kartel and became part of the group Vybez Cartel, though he eventually launched a solo career, keeping a modified version of the name.

Rise to Prominence
Vybz Kartel’s breakthrough came in the early 2000s under the mentorship of dancehall heavyweight Bounty Killer, as a member of the Alliance. His lyrical wit, prolific output, and streetwise persona quickly made him a staple in Jamaican dancehall. Hits like “Summertime,” “Clarks” (featuring Popcaan and Gaza Slim), “Romping Shop” (with Spice), and “Fever” pushed him into both regional and international limelight.

He is credited with reshaping the lyrical style and cultural edge of dancehall music, introducing a blend of hardcore street themes, social commentary, and sexuality with unmatched creativity.

Gaza Empire and Cultural Impact
In the late 2000s, Kartel formed the Portmore Empire, popularly known as the Gaza, launching the careers of several prominent artists, including Popcaan, Tommy Lee Sparta, and Jah Vinci. His influence extended beyond music into fashion, language, and pop culture, earning him both adoration and controversy.

Despite frequent clashes with rivals, including the publicized feud with Mavado and the Gully-side alliance, Kartel remained dominant in the dancehall arena.

Legal Troubles and Incarceration
In 2011, Vybz Kartel was arrested and later charged with murder. In 2014, he was convicted for the murder of Clive "Lizard" Williams and sentenced to life in prison with eligibility for parole after 35 years. Despite his incarceration, Kartel continued to record and release music prolifically from behind bars, sparking both fascination and debate.

On March 14, 2024, the UK Privy Council, Jamaica’s final appellate court, overturned Kartel's conviction, citing issues with the trial. The matter is now pending a retrial decision in Jamaica’s Court of Appeal.

Legacy and Influence
Kartel is regarded as one of the most influential figures in modern dancehall, often compared to Bob Marley in terms of cultural impact within the genre. Known as the "Worl' Boss", his legacy is marked by boundary-pushing music, unfiltered storytelling, and an unwavering connection to Jamaica’s urban youth.

He has released more than 10 studio albums, including:

Up 2 Di Time (2003)

King of the Dancehall (2016)

To Tanesha (2020)

Of Dons and Divas (2020)

Born Fi Dis (2021)

Vybz Kartel's music remains a cornerstone of dancehall, resonating across borders and generations.