Collaborating with Vybz Kartel is a Dream Come True, Comparable to Winning a Grammy

Shatta Wale, the self-proclaimed dancehall king of Ghana, has opened up about the immense personal and professional significance of sharing the stage with Jamaican dancehall legend Vybz Kartel. Known for his Shatta Movement empire, Shatta Wale has long admired Vybz Kartel’s influence in the global music scene. In a candid reflection on his experience, Shatta described performing alongside the incarcerated artist as a milestone in his career, one that he equates to winning a Grammy award.

Speaking after his return from Jamaica, Shatta Wale shared the excitement and pride he felt about the collaboration. “It’s been an amazing experience. For Shatta Movement fans, this is truly a dream come true,” he said, acknowledging the long-standing admiration he had for Vybz Kartel. “Everyone knows how much dancehall music means to me, and being able to perform with Vybz Kartel, one of my idols, is beyond words.”

The Ghanaian artist went on to emphasize the significance of receiving recognition from Vybz Kartel, equating it to a once-in-a-lifetime achievement. “Vybz Kartel’s endorsement is like winning a Grammy for me. He is a global icon, someone whose music resonates worldwide. The fact that he has supported me, and I had the chance to perform with him, means the world to me,” Shatta Wale expressed with gratitude. His statement underscored just how valuable the opportunity was, not only as a career milestone but also as a personal triumph in his journey through the music industry.

Shatta Wale’s appearance at the “Freedom Street” concert, a major event held on December 31, 2024, was a pivotal moment in the Ghanaian artist’s career. The concert, which took place at the National Stadium in Kingston, Jamaica, marked the return of Vybz Kartel to the stage after an almost 14-year hiatus, following his recent release from prison. It was a monumental occasion, and Shatta Wale’s performance alongside the Jamaican star solidified his place in the international dancehall scene.

The event not only featured Vybz Kartel but also boasted a star-studded lineup of other notable figures in the music industry. Among the artists who took part in the concert were Jamaican hitmakers Skillibeng, Popcaan, and Spice, as well as international stars like Busta Rhymes. The concert attracted a massive crowd, making it a historic night for the dancehall community, and Shatta Wale’s participation in such a high-profile event elevated his career to new heights.

The collaboration with Vybz Kartel holds special meaning for Shatta Wale, who has always aspired to reach the pinnacle of the music industry. As a key figure in the African dancehall scene, Shatta Wale has worked hard to break through barriers and establish himself as an internationally recognized artist. His success in the Ghanaian music industry has been undeniable, but performing with an artist of Vybz Kartel’s stature has given Shatta Wale a new sense of validation on the global stage.

While Shatta Wale has long been a trailblazer for the genre in Ghana and beyond, sharing the stage with a dancehall icon like Kartel has brought his career full circle. It’s a reminder of the influence of the Jamaican music scene on artists from across the world, and it underscores the enduring power of dancehall as a global genre.

Reflecting on the night, Shatta Wale spoke of the camaraderie between him and Vybz Kartel, noting the genuine connection they shared through their love for dancehall music. He also spoke about the unity that the “Freedom Street” concert represented, as it brought together artists from different backgrounds and countries to celebrate the genre’s universal appeal.

In the years to come, Shatta Wale’s performance with Vybz Kartel will likely remain one of the most significant moments of his career. Not only did it mark a major accomplishment for the artist, but it also cemented his place in the international dancehall community. For Shatta Wale, this experience is a reminder of the hard work and dedication it takes to reach the top of the music world, and he is determined to continue pushing forward, inspired by the success of the “Freedom Street” concert and the opportunity to perform alongside one of his musical heroes.