VYBZ KARTEL AND REGGAE FEST ANNOUNCE HIS FIRST HEADLINING U.S. CONCERT IN OVER 20 YEARS AT BROOKLYN’S BARCLAYS CENTER ON APRIL 11
Vybz Kartel, widely regarded as the king of dancehall, is making his highly anticipated return to the U.S. stage for the first time in over two decades. The legendary artist is set to perform on Friday, April 11, 2025, at Barclays Center in Brooklyn, NY—a monumental event that marks a new chapter in his career and for dancehall music as a whole.
Presale tickets go live on Tuesday, March 4, at 10:00 AM ET, with general public sales starting Thursday, March 6, at 10:00 AM ET. The concert is presented by Reggae Fest, a brand known for championing Caribbean music and culture on the global stage.
A Landmark Moment for Dancehall
The first quarter of 2025 has been nothing short of groundbreaking for Vybz Kartel, as he continues to plant his flag firmly in the resurgence of Jamaican dancehall worldwide. Since the reinstatement of his U.S. and UK visa in January, the celebrated musician has wasted no time making waves across the industry.
“This is a monumental moment for me and the culture,” Kartel expressed. “To be back on U.S. soil performing for my fans is a blessing that I don’t take lightly. The wait is finally over. New York, get ready.”
Having had his U.S. visa revoked in the early 2000s, Kartel’s return signifies more than just a performance—it’s a moment of redemption, recognition, and revival for dancehall in one of its most significant markets.
The Biggest Dancehall Concert in U.S. History
CJ Milan, CEO and Founder of Reggae Fest, promises an unforgettable night.
“This is going to be the biggest dancehall concert in U.S. history. To be at Barclays Center with the biggest dancehall artist in the world is epic! It’s about time dancehall gets the recognition it deserves. I’m very excited to have Vybz Kartel for his first U.S. show.”
Fans can expect an electrifying performance as Kartel brings his unmatched stage presence, delivering a setlist packed with his timeless anthems and new material that continues to dominate the global charts.
A Year of Triumphs
Kartel’s return to the global stage has been historic in every sense. In February 2025, he stepped onto U.S. soil for the first time in over 20 years when he attended the 2025 Grammy Awards in Los Angeles, where he was nominated for Best Reggae Album.
Shortly after, he traveled to the UK for the prestigious MOBO Awards, where he was honored with the Impact Award—a moment made even more special with a heartfelt introduction by fellow dancehall icon Spice. He then delivered a high-energy MOBO stage performance, running through a medley of his greatest hits, including “Fever” and “Clarks.”
The momentum doesn’t stop there. On July 13, 2025, Kartel will take the stage at London’s Wireless Festival, celebrating its 20th anniversary alongside Drake, PARTYNEXTDOOR, Summer Walker, and Burna Boy.
The Culture Continues to Celebrate Kartel
Vybz Kartel’s influence extends beyond music, as he continues to dominate both media and pop culture.
• He was featured on the Spring 2025 cover of the UK’s The Face Magazine (available now).
• He graced the cover of Billboard’s first issue of 2025, further cementing his legacy.
• He made headlines at the Grammy red carpet, linking up with Twitch sensation Kai Cenat.
• His Drink Champs interview with N.O.R.E. and DJ EFN has already surpassed 1M+ YouTube views, proving that his impact is as strong as ever.
As anticipation builds for his Barclays Center performance, one thing is clear—Vybz Kartel’s return to the U.S. stage is more than just a concert. It’s a cultural movement.
Don’t miss this historic night!
For more details and ticket information, visit Reggae Fest’s official website.