Organisers of the One Caribbean Music Festival (OCMF) have broken their silence following the abrupt cancellation of Vybz Kartel’s scheduled performance, confirming that more than USD$1.1 million had already been paid to the Jamaican dancehall star and his team.
The much-anticipated festival is scheduled to take place at the Queen’s Park Savannah in Port of Spain, Trinidad. A statement from the management of Vybz Kartel confirmed that the artist would not be performing as scheduled due to a contract dispute.
In an official statement issued Saturday, the OCMF team expressed disappointment over Kartel’s withdrawal, which they say they only learned about through a local media report on CNC3—mere hours before showtime.
Vybz Kartel, whose real name is Adidja Palmer, was contracted to perform for a total sum of USD$1.35 million. According to organisers, USD$950,000 was paid directly to the artist, with an additional USD$150,000 sent to his legal representative. The remaining balance, organisers say, was ready and available but could not be disbursed in cash due to legal and financial regulations in Trinidad and Tobago.
Earlier in the week, Kartel’s management reportedly requested a change to his travel itinerary, asking that his flight be rescheduled to Friday. The OCMF team says they accommodated the request in good faith, continuing to prepare for his headline performance.
“Despite all efforts made by the OCMF team to ensure the artiste’s comfort and full payment, it was through the media that we were informed of his decision to pull out,” the statement read. “We extend our sincere apologies to fans who were looking forward to his performance.”
Despite the high-profile cancellation, organisers have confirmed that OCMF 2025 will proceed as planned. With all permits and performers in place—including Malie Donn, Chronic Law, Rvssian, and The Ruffcut Band already in Trinidad, and headliners Moliy and Sizzla Kalonji on their way—the show is set to kick off at 9:00 PM at the Queen’s Park Savannah.
“We remain committed to delivering a world-class entertainment experience,” the statement continued, urging fans to come out early for what they promise will still be an unforgettable night of Caribbean music.
