Worl’ Boss Ascends: Vybz Kartel Crowned King of Dancehall at Reggae Sumfest

(ReggaeVibeMedia.com) – In a triumphant return to his homeland’s most iconic stage, Vybz Kartel has been officially crowned King of Dancehall at Reggae Sumfest 2025. The coronation took place at the Catherine Hall Entertainment Complex in Montego Bay, where a record-breaking crowd witnessed the bold declaration of a dancehall legend reclaiming his throne.

High above the energy of Festival Night One, staging and production elements shined as never before—crisp visuals, immersive sound, and vibrant lighting elevated the moment. As Spice, the reigning Queen of Dancehall, placed a red-velvet, jewel-encrusted crown upon his head, Sumfest organizer Joe Bogdanovich joined the ceremony—confirming this was more than a title, it was the culmination of dancehall’s ongoing legacy.

A Crown in Context

Kartel’s return to Sumfest after a 14-year absence was nothing short of cinematic. His one-hour, hit-heavy set opened with the uplifting “MoBay Anthem” and included fan favorites: “My Scheme,” “Send Fi Mi Army,” “Fever,” “Romping Shop” (with Spice), “Bike Back,” “Dollar Sign,” “Live Dem,” “Love Dem,” and closed strongly with “God Is the Greatest.” His raw emotion and commanding presence left the packed audience roaring with approval.

During his coronation speech, Kartel paused to honor his musical lineage:

“People, me affi big up Bounty Killer… Buju Banton, Ninja Man… Big up to Beenie Man, the former king.”

Bogdanovich praised the moment as “historic and well overdue,” echoing the sentiment across dancehall circles.

Reigniting Dancehall’s Global Flame

Since his prison release in July 2024 following an overturned conviction, Kartel has been on a climb—selling out shows in Kingston, Brooklyn, Miami, London, and staging a surprise performance with Drake at Wireless Festival. Now back home, he declares:

“I’ve been the king before I went to prison… But for me, what is really exciting is to perform for Jamaicans. One Jamaica, one dancehall.”

Radio host Tommy Lee Sparta, who briefly joined the stage during Skeng’s set, backed Kartel’s crowning, calling the moment “more than deserved” and affirming dancehall’s resurgence under his lead.

What This Crown Means

Kartel’s coronation marks a major chapter in dancehall history. Previously, Beenie Man received the title at Sumfest in 2009; now, Kartel stands tall as its successor in 2025. The crown isn’t just symbolic—it represents the genre’s resilience, evolution, and global impact.

With his defiant return, he’s reignited dancehall’s spirit and reminded the world why Jamaica remains the heartbeat of cultural innovation. His blend of provocative lyricism, stagecraft, and musical mastery—he’s influenced global stars like Drake—is on full display once more.

What the Crown Heralds

• For Dancehall Fans: A restored sense of pride and reassurance that the genre’s roots remain anchored in authenticity and innovation.

• For the Next Wave: Kartel’s triumph becomes a template for emerging artists—reminding them to harness boldness, continue crafting hits, embrace the craft, and never lose sight of their heritage.

• For Sumfest: Firm confirmation of its power to stage cultural milestones—blending cutting-edge production with historical resonance.

Final Take

Vybz Kartel’s coronation as King of Dancehall at Reggae Sumfest 2025 was more than a moment—it was a movement. Between his stirring performance, heartfelt acknowledgments to predecessors, and uplifts to loyal fans, the Worl’ Boss not only reclaimed his crown—he rekindled dancehall’s global flame.

As Jamaica’s flag hoists over Catherine Hall, the future of dancehall is once again lit by its past. Kartel’s reign has begun—and it promises to roar louder than ever.