Few names in dancehall music have stirred as much conversation as Vybz Kartel. Known for his striking personality, Kartel’s journey has had a mix of highs and deep lows.
From humble beginnings in Kingston to the top of the dancehall charts, to prison, and his recent released from prison is a complex one. Let’s explore his net worth, age, early life, and notable business ventures that makes him money.
Vybz Kartel Age
Born originally as Adidja Azim Palmer on January 7, 1976, in Kingston, Jamaica, Vybz Kartel is currently 48 years old as of 2024.
Despite his age, Kartel remains one of the most influential figures in dancehall music. His career, spanning over two decades, has cemented his legacy within the genre, even as his personal life took dramatic turns.
Vybz Kartel Net Worth
As of 2024, Vybz Kartel’s net worth is estimated to be around $2 million. His wealth is primarily derived from his music career, business ventures, and royalties from his impressive body of work.
Despite his legal battles and incarceration, Kartel continues to make money, thanks to his ongoing influence in the dancehall scene and shrewd business moves.
Kartel’s career took off in the early 2000s, and his record sales reflect his success. Notable albums like Up 2 Di Time, Pon Di Gaza 2.0, and Kingston Story earned him significant income.
He collaborated with international stars like Rihanna and Missy Elliott, which further boosted his exposure and sales. For instance, his work on Rihanna’s Music of the Sun sold nearly 960,000 copies, adding a substantial sum to his earnings.
Beyond music, Kartel ventured into business with his Street Vybz Rum, a popular liquor brand in Jamaica. Additionally, he has hinted at expanding his empire with products like cake soap and a shoe line, though the latter projects have yet to fully materialize.
Early Life
Vybz Kartel grew up in the tough Waterford district of Kingston, Jamaica. Like many young Jamaicans, Kartel was exposed to reggae and dancehall from an early age.
Influenced by artists like Sam Cooke, Ninja Man, and Papa San, Kartel started writing his own lyrics at the age of 11. His uncles, who introduced him to a wide variety of music, were central to his early musical ambitions.
At just 17, Kartel recorded his first single, Love Fat Woman, under the name Adi Banton. His love for music and ability to craft catchy, controversial lyrics set him apart from other aspiring artists of the time. After forming a group called Vybez Kartel, he eventually decided to go solo, a move that would shape the rest of his career.
Rise to Fame
Kartel’s breakout moment came in 2003 when he clashed with dancehall veteran Ninjaman on stage at Sting, Jamaica’s premier dancehall festival. This clash, although violent, put Kartel in the spotlight, and he hasn’t left it since.
Hits like Romping Shop (featuring Spice) and Dancehall Hero made him a household name. His knack for controversy only added to his fame, as his music often pushed the boundaries of what was acceptable in mainstream dancehall.
By the mid-2000s, Vybz Kartel was firmly established as a leading figure in the dancehall world. His influence extended beyond Jamaica, as his music reached international audiences, particularly in the Caribbean, North America, and Europe.
Why Was Vybz Kartel in Prison?
In 2014, Vybz Kartel was sentenced to life in prison for the murder of Clive “Lizard” Williams. This case shook Jamaica and the global music community.
The trial, which lasted 64 days—the longest in Jamaican history—was highly publicized, and Kartel, along with three others, was convicted of orchestrating Williams’ 2011 disappearance and murder. The details of the case remain contentious, as Williams’ body was never recovered.
The prosecution claimed that Williams had stolen guns from Kartel, leading to his murder. Kartel has consistently maintained his innocence, and his legal team has filed multiple appeals.
Despite his incarceration and eventual release, Kartel’s music continues to be released, with some speculating that he records from prison. Kartel, however, claims that these tracks were pre-recorded before his imprisonment.
Business Ventures
Over the past decades, Vybz Kartel has proven to be a savvy businessman. His most successful venture has been Street Vybz Rum, a popular brand of liquor in Jamaica.
Launched in collaboration with other business partners, the rum became a staple in Jamaican nightlife. Its success allowed Kartel to solidify his presence in the business world, even as he faced mounting legal challenges.
Kartel has also expressed interest in other business ventures, including a cake soap line and a shoe brand. While these ventures have been delayed, possibly due to his legal troubles and health issues, they demonstrate his ambition to create a business expire for himself.
His record label, Adidjahiem/Notnice Records, also continues to promote new talent, adding to his revenue streams.
Where Is Vybz Kartel Now?
On July 31, 2024, Vybz Kartel was released from prison after serving ten years of his life sentence. His release came after UK judges overturned his murder conviction in March 2024, deciding that he would not face a retrial.
Now 48 years old, Kartel’s release reignited excitement among his fan base. Although his imprisonment did not stop him from releasing music, his release marks a new chapter in his career.
Fans and critics alike are curious to see what the “Worl’ Boss” will do next as he begins his post-prison life, and many expect him to make a grand return to the music scene.
