Vybz Kartel’s Return: 25 Must-See Photos From His ‘Freedom Street’ NYE Concert

Dancehall star Vybz Kartel made his highly anticipated return to the stage on New Year’s Eve with the Freedom Street concert, his first live performance in over 13 years. The concert was his first major public appearance since his release from prison in July 2024. Kartel, whose real name is Adidja Azim Palmer, had been incarcerated since 2011 after being convicted of murder, a sentence that was overturned by a UK court.

The Freedom Street concert, produced by Downsound Entertainment in collaboration with STR8 VYBZ Rum, took place at Kingston’s Independence Park (National Stadium), with attendees from various parts of the world, including Jamaica, the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom. While the venue’s capacity was not filled, the crowd reflected a diverse fanbase that has followed Kartel’s music for years.

The show featured performances by several prominent artists, including Spice, Bounty Killer, Popcaan, Ghanaian artist Shatta Wale and hip-hop legend Busta Rhymes. Other notable performers included Tommy Lee Sparta, Lisa Hyper, Gaza Indu, Shawn Storm, Rvssian, Skeng and Skillibeng, who further fueled the event’s energy. Kartel’s sons, Likkle Addi and Likkle Vybz, also performed during the concert.

Here’s a look at some of the key moments from the concert, captured in photos by Tizzy Tokyo.