The Breakfast Club INTERVIEW: Vybz Kartel On Cultural Influence, Lessons From Prison, Meeting His Fiancé, Kings Of Dancehall + More
Apr 11, 2025
Vybz Kartel, the iconic Jamaican dancehall artist, reflects on his remarkable journey and the cultural impact of his music. He shares heartfelt lessons learned during his time in prison and how faith and family fueled his resilience. In a lively discussion, he delves into the evolving dynamics of dancehall, including artist rivalries and the influence of technology. Kartel also explores deep themes of identity, societal beauty standards, and the rich tapestry of Jamaican folklore, all while dreaming up future creative projects.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Return Feels Like A Blessing
- Vybz Kartel describes feeling like a million dollars returning to perform after 13 years in prison.
- He attributes his success and survival to God's blessing and his hard work over the years.
Family Fueled Persistence
- Despite illness and prison struggles, Kartel never gave up on making music or his responsibilities.
- His children and family were powerful motivators to keep him focused and strong.
Music From Prison
- Kartel recorded music from prison using an iPhone 5S and his determination.
- Despite illness and harsh prison conditions, he kept creating because his family depended on him.