The Worl’ Boss touches U.S. soil for the first time in over two decades—Brooklyn responded accordingly.
After more than 20 years of absence from U.S. stages, Vybz Kartel made his long-awaited return in true Gaza fashion—two sold-out nights at Brooklyn’s Barclays Center that will go down in dancehall history. Presented by Reggae Fest, the April 11 and 12 shows weren’t just concerts—they were coronations.
Over 40,000 fans poured into the arena across the two-night stretch, proving that Kartel’s star power hasn’t dimmed in the slightest. If anything, it’s only gotten brighter. Thanks to the reinstatement of his U.S. visa earlier this year, the deejay finally touched a mic on American soil—and he made every second count.
Night one brought the fireworks early. Kartel powered through anthems like “Fever,” “Clarks,” “Rompin Shop,” “Brooklyn Anthem,” and “Summertime,” while weaving in fresh heat like “God Is the Greatest.” Special guests Jah Vinci, Black Ryno, and Rvssian lit up the stage, but it was Busta Rhymes and Spice who sent the crowd into full frenzy. In the stands? Cardi B, Buju Banton, and a host of industry heavyweights showing love.
Then came night two, and the vibes only leveled up.
Ghanaian rising star Moliy opened with flair, before Shenseea and Skillibeng joined forces for a booming “Shake It to the Max” performance. Spice had another moment that nearly shut the place down—stepping out in a towel to serenade Kartel, a callback that longtime Gaza fans caught instantly. Cameos from Ne-Yo, Fabolous, Lil’ Kim, and YG Marley turned the night into a who’s-who of Caribbean and Black American icons, blending genres and generations in one electric space. Kranium, Ishawna, Kraff, Chronic Law, and Rvssian rounded out the bill, making sure the energy never dropped.
“This was an emotional and amazing night—something I’ve dreamed of,” said Kartel. “I knew this show would be explosive. My New York fans have been waiting a long time, so being back felt like a full-circle moment. I had to pinch myself. I’m deeply grateful for my fans, everyone working behind the scenes, and the special guests who supported—on stage or off. It was a beautiful two nights in a city that means so much to me.”
CJ Milan, Reggae Fest CEO, called it what it was: “The biggest show in dancehall history in the U.S.”
The shows followed Kartel’s sold-out Freedom Street concert at Jamaica’s National Stadium on New Year’s Eve and his appearance at the 2025 Grammy Awards—after securing his first-ever nomination. He also collected the Impact Award at the MOBOs in the UK. Now, the Freedom Street tour is heading global, with stops booked in Miami (May 17), Cologne for SummerJam Festival (July 4–6), London’s Wireless Festival (July 13, alongside Drake, Burna Boy, and Summer Walker), and two headline nights in Malta come September.
From Kingston to Barclays to the world—Vybz Kartel isn’t just back. He’s unstoppable.
