dancehall history
Vybz Kartel has made history as the first and only dancehall artiste to sell out the main O2 Arena in London. Performing back-to-back shows on September 4 and 5, 2025, he drew 20,000 fans each night, marking an unprecedented moment for the genre. With guest appearances from Rvssian and Wizkid, Kartel delivered powerhouse performances despite an injured knee, ending each night with an emotional God Is the Greatest. Until now, no dancehall artiste had ever achieved such a feat at the O2, making Kartel’s accomplishment a landmark for Jamaican music and a clear signal of dancehall’s expanding global influence.
Dancehall Week 2025, taking place from February 23 to March 2 in Kingston, Jamaica, celebrates the global influence of dancehall music and culture. Highlights include the Dancehall Village, a grand street parade, performances by top-tier artists like Shenseea and Beenie Man, and workshops led by influential industry pioneers. Tourists and locals alike can immerse themselves in the vibrant essence of Jamaican culture. For more information, visit the official Dancehall Week website.
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