Vybz Kartel To Headline U.S. Concerts For First Time In Over 20 Years At Brooklyn’s Barclays Center

Dancehall star Vybz Kartel is making his highly anticipated return to the United States stage after two decades. The Jamaican artist will headline two concerts at Brooklyn’s Barclays Center on April 11 and 12, 2025.

The first date was announced earlier this week, with tickets selling so quickly that organizers added a second show. General ticket sales for both dates begin on Thursday, March 6, at 10 a.m. ET.

Kartel, who had his U.S. visa reinstated earlier this year, expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to perform again in one of dancehall’s most critical markets and called the moment “monumental.”

“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,” he said.

CJ Milan, CEO of Reggae Fest and organizer of the event, emphasized the significance of Kartel’s return. “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,” Milan stated.

Kartel’s return to live performances has been accompanied by an outpouring of accolades. Earlier this year, he attended the 2025 Grammy Awards in Los Angeles, where he was nominated for Best Reggae Album. Shortly after, he received the Impact Award at the MOBO Awards in England, following a moving introduction by dancehall star Spice.

Fans can expect a performance filled with Kartel’s extensive catalog of hits, as well as new music from his latest album, Viking (Vybz Is King): 10th Year Anniversary. Released in January, the album includes both reimagined tracks from his 2015 project and seven new songs like “Amout,” “Str8 Vybz,” and “God Is The Greatest.”

In addition to his U.S. shows, Kartel is set to perform at London’s Wireless Festival on July 13, 2025, sharing the stage with Drake, Burna Boy, and Summer Walker.