Renowned dancehall artist Vybz Kartel has officially been released from prison after serving 13 years for a murder conviction. This development has sparked celebrations among his global fanbase. The Jamaican Court of Appeal ordered his release on Wednesday, July 31, 2024, after overturning his murder conviction. In 2011, he was arrested and charged with the murder of Clive “Lizard” Williams. In 2014. Vybz Kartel was convicted and sentenced to life in prison. Despite his incarceration, Kartel has continued to release music, maintaining a significant fan base and presence in the music industry.
Why was Vybz Kartel released?
The release follows a unanimous ruling by Jamaica’s Court of Appeal. The court decided against a retrial for Kartel, citing his deteriorating health and the significant psychological and financial toll the ongoing legal battle had taken on him. Kartel’s defense team highlighted his severe health issues, including a swollen neck and face. They claimed that these health problems have been progressively worsened over the years. Eventually, the prosecutors were notified that the prolonged incarceration would lead to a serious threat to the dancehall king.
Who else was freed with the dancehall king?
In addition to Kartel, his co-accused—Shawn ‘Storm’ Campbell, Andre St John, and Kahira Jones—were also freed. Several critical factors, including the unavailability of key witnesses and crucial trial exhibits, influenced the court’s ruling. The prosecution could not account for the presence of its witnesses, and several pieces of evidence from the trial were either missing or unaccounted for. This, combined with the substantial resources expended during the initial trial, posed a significant burden on the judicial system.
How fans gathered outside the prison
As news of Kartel’s release broke, fans gathered outside the Tower Street Adult Correctional Centre in downtown Kingston. The atmosphere was electric, with chants of “Free World Boss” echoing through the streets. Authorities had to cordon off the area to manage the large crowds and ensure security.
What you need to know
Who is Vybz Kartel?
Vybz Kartel, born Adidja Azim Palmer on January 7, 1976, is a prominent Jamaican dancehall artist, songwriter, and record producer. He is known for his influence on the dancehall genre and his controversial persona both in music and his personal life. Vybz Kartel grew up in the Waterford district of Portmore, St. Catherine, Jamaica. He began his music career in the late 1990s and gained popularity in the early 2000s. His breakthrough came with the release of the song “Clarks” in 2010, which became a massive hit and cemented his status in the dancehall scene.
What is he famous for?
Kartel is known for his prolific output, releasing numerous albums and mixtapes. Some of his well-known songs include “Romping Shop,” “Fever,” “Summertime,” and “Dancehall Hero.” His lyrical style often includes explicit content and themes of street life, romance, and social commentary. Kartel’s influence extends beyond music, as he has also ventured into business, launching his line of rum and skin care products. Vybz Kartel is often referred to as the “Worl’ Boss” by his fans and has had a significant impact on dancehall music and culture.
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