Though Vybz Kartel is locked up, his spirit is very much alive in all other aspects. He’s releasing music at a consistent rate while still chiming in on recent events in the world. Whether it’s some of the current artists coming up in the dancehall scene that he’s extended a co-sign to or artists from around the globe that have caught his attention, Vybz’ social media activity often sheds light on some of the people that he’s messing with in the realm of music.

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Earlier this month, Lil Wayne and Eminem had an in-depth conversation on Young Money Radio, Wayne’s recent endeavor on Beats1 Radio. During the conversation, both Em and Lil Wayne revealed that they have to Google their own lyrics in order to avoid repeating the same bars that they have in the past. Much like Vybz Kartel, both Wayne and Em have often been heralded for their work ethic. Vybz took to the ‘Gram after the episode with high praise from Lil Wayne.

“@eminem i AM google! Jamaica weh you say??? #monster vs #alien (bigup my favorite rapper alive btw @liltunechi ),” he captioned the post.

Wayne has yet to respond to the compliment. However, maybe this is the time to purpose a Vybz Kartel interview on the next episode of Young Money Radio. Even though it’s a long shot, it would definitely be lit to hear two GOATs chop it up on the air.

Peep Vybz Kartel’s post below. 

Many have called for Vybz Kartel‘s freedom over the years but that has not been enough for the dancehall legend’s release from prison. He was sentenced to life in prison for his role in the murder of Clive “Lizard” Williams. Though he’s made numerous attempts to appeal the sentence, he was recently denied his bid at the beginning of April. However, he did receive a bit of good news a few weeks later.

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The Jamaican Observer reports that Vybz Kartel scored a win in court this week when it was determined that he would be eligible for parole earlier than expected. Though it won’t be any time soon, it was ruled that he would be eligible for parole in 32 years and six months instead of 35 years. 

“The trial judge fell in error by not taking into account the time spent in reprimand, which is a breach of principle. So, I am pleased that the court has decided to reduce the sentences by two-and-a-half years,” Bert Samuels, attorney for Vybz Kartel’s co-defendant Shawn Storm said.

Despite the good news, it still means that the dancehall legend, who turned 44-years-old behind bars, will be released in 2046 when he is 70-years-old. 

Even though Vybz is behind bars, he’s blessed us with a ton of music. Earlier this year, he released his latest album, To Tanisha. 

Vybz Kartel fans might be able to celebrate amidst this awful coronavirus outbreak.

Back in 2014, the dancehall superstar was sentenced to life for the murder of Clive ‘Lizard’ Williams. According to reports, in 2011 Clive was murdered at Kartel’s residency, after stealing two guns from the reggae sensation. Despite a body never being found, Kartel’s mobile messages provided more than enough detail for conviction. The messages read, “Tween me an u a chop we chop up the bwoy Lizard fine fine. Yeah man a mince meat dat … As long as u live dem can never find him.” 

Despite the convictions, Vybz Kartel, real name Adidja Palmer, has maintained his innocence and claimed he’s interested in appealing his conviction. Before the appeal was read at 9:30am on April 3rd, Palmer’s defense lawyer Valerie Nieta-Robertson expressed her thoughts spiritedly on social media. Robertson stated that as a result of Palmer’s release that fans celebrate at least 3 feet away, maintaining social distancing.

"As the SENIOR Lawyer on the Case and the attorney who represents Adidjah Palmer alongside QC Tom Finson . I only ask one favor, tomorrow please celebrate atleast 3 FT apart in your homes along with Other#covid-19 Stipulations. Dont come on the streets#TanAhYuhYaad." Aside from her enforcements, Robertson also expressed her confidence and excitement for Kartel’s release. Despite her best intentions, however, Kartel lost his appeal this morning. His murder charge will be sticking with him for a bit longer, at the very least.

Dancehall’s always had a global appeal but in recent times, it seems like the sounds have seeped into the sound of pop music. Popcaan is without a doubt one of the most popular dancehall artists right now. Under the wing of Vybz Kartel, he grew in popularity throughout Jamaica and across the world. Although Vybz is currently incarcerated, Popcaan explained how Vybz Kartel has always been one of his earliest supporters.

“[Vybz Kartel] is a Man wa bet pon me from morning. Him did already tell the world say Popcaan ago do this. Is no surprise to him, him know me great long time. Him could a see it from the minute me sing pon the stage and the way how me operate around the studio a day time,” he told Ebro.

He also went on to explain his connection to Drake and officially locking in his deal with OVO. He explained that his debut on the label was a mixtape because he has so much music in the cut, although he didn’t know what they had in their plans. “The first time when me realize say Drake really in tuned with me music, him tweet and say Drizzy Drake a the only man she want,” he said. “Drake support dancehall music a lot. Him already a shed light pon dancehall culture by shedding light on Popcaan.”

Poppi also confirmed future plans with the label confirming a collaboration with Drake will appear on his official album through OVO. Peep the whole interview below.