Vybz Kartel’s highly anticipated return to the stage at Freedom Street is shaping up to be one of the most talked-about events of the year.
At the official launch event held in Kingston last Wednesday, Josef Bogdanovich, CEO of Downsound Entertainment, dubbed the upcoming celebration as “the dawn of something truly legendary.”
“On December 31, we’re making history,” Bogdanovich declared. “It’s not just about the comeback; it’s about the passion, energy, and unstoppable spirit Kartel brings. This will be a New Year’s celebration like no other, showing Jamaica and the world that with Kartel and Downsound Entertainment, everything is possible.”
At the press conference, stakeholders gave fans a sneak peek of what to expect, including superstar guest appearances and a massive “Gaza” reunion.
Vybz Kartel already revealed an all-star line-up for the event, including Spice, Skillibeng, and his sons Likkle Vybz and Likkle Addi. He also took to social media to confirm that some of the biggest names from his former Portmore Empire crew, such as Popcaan, Tommy Lee Sparta, Shawn Storm, Sheba, Lisa Hyper, and Gaza Indu, will be part of the show.
The renowned camp also once featured artists like Gaza Slim, Gaza Kim, Blak Ryno, and Jahvinchi, though it’s still unclear whether they will be performing at the concert.
Portmore Empire was a groundbreaking dancehall collective by Vybz Kartel, known for launching the careers of several top Jamaican dancehall artists. The group, marred by controversy and internal feuds, was disbanded in 2012.
“It’s gonna be pure epic-ness. Gaza Nation, you know the level! Expect the best and baddest in the game to represent. And I don’t wanna jump the gun, but we got some world-renowned rappers ready to pass through,” Kartel teased. “It’s the reunion dancehall enthusiasts have been waiting for, and we’re bringing it.”
In a surprising twist, Vybz Kartel and Bogdanovich announced an exclusive 50% ticket discount for the Bleachers section at the National Stadium venue, available on Black Friday weekend, November 29 to December 1. This generous offer is part of Kartel’s effort to give back to his loyal Gaza Nation fanbase.
“Mi fans a mi heart. Gaza Nation stand by me, so mi a stand by dem,” Kartel shared in a statement, emphasizing just how much his fans mean to him. “This 50% off is my way fi seh respect to every Gaza supporter who a mek dis event possible. Mi ready fi celebrate wid every single one a unnu come New Year’s Eve!”
Adding even more heat to the Freedom Street experience, top deejays like ZJ Chrome, Code Red, Ricky Platinum, Brush 1, Franco, and Fyah Man will be on the decks, ensuring the vibes stay high throughout the night.
