Dancehall star Vybz Kartel and two of his three co-accused will remain behind bars after a judge rejected the habeas corpus application submitted by their attorneys Thursday.
Supreme Court Justice Andrea Thomas ruled that in the absence of a verdict of acquittal by the Privy Council the charge of murder remains in effect for Kartel, whose given name is Adidja Palmer, and his co-accused Shawn “Shawn Storm” Campbell and Andre St John.
In declaring that their present custodial status is not in breach of the constitution, Justice Thomas told a packed court room at the Supreme Court in downtown Kingston that, “In view of the fact that their appeal is not yet determined they should remain in custody until their appeal is concluded.
“That is until a verdict of acquittal is entered or there is a decision for a retrial,” Thomas said.
The ruling comes after an intense court battle to determine whether Kartel and the two men were being illegally detained by the state. Attorney for the men, Isat Buchanan, argued in submissions that “a conviction must exist for there to be authority to detain” the men.
Meanwhile, state attorneys argued that the quashing of the convictions by the Privy Council in March did not equate to an acquittal and only reverted the men to their pretrial status with murder charges that are still “live”. The defense lawyers had on May 13 filed a writ of habeas corpus application seeking their clients’ release, arguing that there was no order by the Apex Court for the continued detention of their clients and as such they should be released.
The defence lawyers had on May 13 filed a writ of habeas corpus application seeking their clients’ release, arguing that there was no order by the Apex Court for the continued detention of their clients and as such they should be released.
The Privy Council’s ruling followed an appeal made in February by lawyers representing the then-convicts, who argued various grounds, including the admissibility of telecommunication evidence, allegations of jury misconduct, and pressure on the jury to reach a verdict.
Since the ruling, the artiste has remained in prison. Shortly after, Kartel questioned the need for a retrial in his statement to Fox 5 News, saying, “I feel victorious in this very moment as the Privy Council, in their infinite wisdom, understood the assignment and remedied the situation by quashing my conviction! I am now back to being an innocent man in the eyes of the law. A grave injustice was done to me and my co-accused in the original trial… and my cries were heard in the land’s highest court.”
Vybz Kartel, born on January 7, 1976, is a Jamaican musician known for his infectious dancehall music. His music is especially popular in Jamaica but has also managed to spread across the world. For example, it has been confirmed that his style influenced artists like Drake, Rihanna, and Major Lazer. However, in March 2014, Vybz Kartel was sentenced to life in prison, and jailed for the murder of one of his associates, Clive “Lizard” Williams.
Since then, the popular singer has continued releasing music from his prison cell. It’s become a massive phenomenon, especially since Jamaican prison officials have denied granting him access to recording equipment and sessions. However, his case received renewed relevance a few days ago, after he finally won his appeal to overturn his murder conviction.
The alleged murder leading to Vybz Kartel being jailed is reported to have occurred in August 2011. Moreover, the incident is said to have taken place at Kartel’s own house in Havendale, Kingston. Williams, the victim, and another man were called there for not returning two of Kartel’s unlicensed firearms at an agreed-upon date. Days later, the house burned down, and Williams disappeared. At the trial, a witness, Lamar Chow, testified to seeing Williams motionless on the ground. Prosecutors also claimed Williams was killed over the lost guns, citing text messages before his alleged murder.
And just like that, Kartel and three others (Shawn Campbell, Kahira Jones, Andre St. John) were convicted after a 64-day trial, one of Jamaica’s longest. Kartel had been in jail for about three years as he awaited trial. At the end, he received a life sentence of a minimum of 35 years. However, the verdict would later be appealed, and the sentence would later be reduced to 32 years and six months in 2020.
Case Flaws
Although Vybz Kartel has been jailed since 2011, his legal team would vehemently argue that the messages used as evidence against him were obtained unlawfully. It’s since been contended that they were obtained in breach of Jamaican laws. As a result, they should therefore have reportedly been deemed inadmissible in court. Additionally, they claimed that the prosecution’s case against Kartel was riddled with flaws, and pointed out significant discrepancies during the trial process. These include missing witness statements and the inexplicable disappearance of a compact disc containing crucial evidence.
Kartel’s lawyers also raised concerns about the handling of allegations regarding jury misconduct during the trial. Specifically, they claimed that the trial judge failed to adequately address accusations that one juror had offered a substantial sum of money, 500,000 Jamaican dollars (equivalent to $3,200 USD), to fellow jurors in exchange for returning “not guilty” verdicts. This alleged misconduct, they argue, led to Vybz Kartel being jailed. These arguments were also responsible for the two appeal cases that would follow the conviction.
Appeals Against Vybz Kartel And His Co-Defendants Being Jailed
In 2020, Jamaica’s Court of Appeal ruled to reduce the sentences of Vybz Kartel and his three co-defendants. It was now decided that Kartel would spend 32 years and 6 months in prison instead of 35 years. Vybz Kartel, who had been jailed since September 29, 2011, would now be considered for release in 2046. His co-defendants Shawn Campbell and Kahira Jones, also had their sentences changed to 22 years and six months. However, Andre St John’s sentence was fixed at 27 years and six months
As aforementioned, after a second appeal, Vybz Kartel’s murder conviction was completely overturned 10 years later. On March 14, 2024, the Judicial Committee of the Privy Council overturned the conviction due to the issues with the jury at the time of the first sentence. The London-based council then decreed that the Jamaican Court of Appeal would decide if there should be a new trial. Kartel’s lawyer, Isat Buchanan, said the next step is to head to the Court of Appeals in Jamaica.
Maintaining Relevance Despite Jail Time
In a head-scratching series of events, Vybz Kartel has managed to stay relevant in the music scene since he’s been jailed. For example, his Instagram account has stayed very active in that time. He also got engaged to a London-based social worker, who still represents his cause. Even more shocking is how he has managed to keep his music career active. In fact, the music legend released more than 50 songs in 2016 alone. His hit track “Fever,” was also certified Gold in June 2020.
When asked for confirmation Jamaica’s Deputy Commissioner of Corrections, Joyce Stone, said that Kartel was under investigation for making music while incarcerated. According to Stone, Kartel was not cleared to partake in the prison’s rehabilitation program, which permits inmates to engage in activities like song recording. Regardless, Kartel has continued to release albums and singles since that time. He even appeared in a video interview with Fox5 to discuss his appeal case before the Privy Council which was still pending at the time.
It is also worth mentioning that the Tower Street Adult Correctional Centre, where Kartel is imprisoned, is a maximum-security facility. But this would evidently not stop Kartel from maintaining his influence in the dancehall scene. A theory on how he achieved this feat occurred when Members of the Jamaica Defense Force (JDF) and the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) were summoned after discovering a tunnel leading from the Tower Street Prison in Kingston to a nearby church.
Vybz Kartel’s Health
Another factor driving Vybz Kartel’s urgency to resolve his case could be related to his health. A medical assessment conducted in 2023 revealed that he has been battling Graves’ Disease, a thyroid condition, for seven years. Despite medication, the condition has not improved and remains active. Additionally, Kartel suffers from two heart conditions and associated complications. Dr. Phillips, the physician mentioned in the report, has recommended surgery as soon as possible.
Kartel’s private doctor has informed authorities about the worsening of his Graves’ Disease and heart condition. They emphasized that without prompt surgical intervention, the situation could become life-threatening. In exclusive interviews, Kartel’s attorney highlighted concerns about the inhumane conditions in prison, suggesting they pose a risk to Kartel’s life. This specific reason may come in handy as the dancehall artist gears for a retrial.
Let’s set the scene. You’re out with friends, or maybe by yourself, at a local nightclub or day party, and the DJ on set gives a shoutout to the “Carribeans” in the crowd. They say something like, “One time for my Carribeans” or “Where my Carribeans at?” and those in the audience who identify as such make some noise with the expectation that a song from their region will be played next. Instead, an afrobeats record from the likes of Wizkid, Davido, or Burna Boy blares from the speakers. Carribeans and Africans in the audience are left equally confused by the miscategorization and the DJ does a quick two- or three-song rotation before getting back to their regularly scheduled programming.
As ludicrous as it sounds, this scenario happens more often than you’d think. Look no further than comments in this Lipstick Alley forum from 2022 for proof. While regions heavily populated with Africans or Carribeans like southern New England, New York City, Philadelphia, or Houston probably haven’t had this experience to the extent of other areas, it is an issue. It’s just one example of the miscategorization of these genres that we’ve seen happen time and time again.
By the 2010s, Afrobeats and dancehall were undeniably popular in the global mainstream. Viral dances like those attached to Fuse ODG’s “Azonto” and Iyana’s “Kukere,” as well as success from Davido, Burna Boy, Wizkid, P-Sqaure, D’banj, and others played a big role in afrobeats’ rising popularity. In contrast, the success of Sean Paul, Popcaan, Vybz Kartel, Bounty Killer, Beenie Man, and others helped boost the appeal of dancehall. Though dancehall stands alone as its own unique sound, afrobeats is more of a culmination of various genres that include any mixture of house, hip-hop, dancehall, highlife, R&B, afrobeat (yes, without the s), and more.
Afrobeat is different from afrobeats as it pulls from traditional Nigerian music with additional influences from funk, jazz, and soul, and sees its origins go back to the 1960s, while the origin of dancehall is between the 1960s and 1970s. With afrobeats and afrobeat often getting confused and afrobeats containing numerous influences — including dancehall — it’s not all that surprising that the genres are mixed up, leading to DJs shouting out “Carribeans” and playing afrobeats. However, a history mix-up would be a generous explanation for all of this.
With afrobeats and dancehall making their presence felt in the mainstream world by the mid-2010s, artists in the respective genres continued a tradition of collaboration dating back to their origins. Some of the records we’ve received over the years include Kranium & Wizkid’s “Can’t Believe It,” Popcaan and Davido’s “Risky” and “Dun Rich,” Burna Boy’s “Toni-Ann Singh” with Popcaan, Byron Messia’s “Talibans II” with Burna Boy, Teejay’s “Drift (Remix)” with Davido, Vybz Kartel & Burna Boy’s “Personally (Remix),” and Wizkid’s “Slip N Slide” with Shenseea and Skillibeng. In these cases, the blend between afrobeats and dancehall can be effortless with each artist performing just as well in the other’s genre as they do their own. For those without knowledge of the artists and sounds within afrobeats and dancehall, this is where the distinction between the genres gets lost, and suddenly, you’re shouting out the Carribeans in the crowd, only to play a set full of afrobeats staples.
While some ignorance is understandable, fans’ and DJs’ reluctance to correct said ignorance is not. Both afrobeats and dancehall are becoming more and more globally popular and respected by the month. For example, a fall 2023 report from Spotify noted that afrobeats tallied more than 15 billion streams on the platform. In just the last few years, both genres have provided records that served as anthems for the year’s hottest months, including Burna Boy’s “Last Last,” Byron Messia’s “Talibans,” and Wizkid’s “Essence.”
These artists are Grammy nominees and winners. Artists in both genres collaborate with some of the biggest names in the industry. The genres’ successes aren’t a fluke, but the result of years of work from their pioneers and contemporary hitmakers to push the beautiful sounds of their culture to the masses. Afrobeats and dancehall deserve the respect and recognition to stand and be known on their own terms.
Some artists covered here are Warner Music artists. Uproxx is an independent subsidiary of Warner Music Group.
Kingston, Jamaica is the home of dancehall artist extraordinaire, Vybz Kartel. The long-time musician has been in the business since the late 2000s. However, he is not a free man as of 2011. The 47-year-old was charged with the murder of a fellow Jamaican businessman, Barrington Burton. However, he was released on bail a little bit later on. Incredibly, though, he was charged with the murder of someone else in the same year. All of this is according to Sportskeeda.
Kartel was found guilty of the death of one other man, Clive Williams, on March 13, 2014. It was not a quick decision, though. The final verdict came after a lengthy 65-day trial. He is still currently serving time at the Tower Street Adult Correctional Center. On top of this, Vybz was/is suffering from Graves disease. It is an autoimmune disorder caused by an overactive thyroid. His face and neck were swelling up so much that it was posed as life-threatening. However, even with all of this going on his team is still releasing music here and there.
A few weeks ago he dropped a song to YouTube called “Hostile.” It is a gritty trap-like track that features the gravelly and intimidating voice of Vybz. Just a short time ago, a music video was released for it. It emits the gang lifestyle to a tee. You can check it out above.
What are your initial thoughts on this music video for Vybz Kartel’s latest song, “Hostile?” Is he one of the most influential artists from Jamaica? Do you want a new album from him soon? We want to hear what you have to say about all of this. With that in mind, be sure to leave all of your thoughts and opinions in the comments section below. Additionally, always keep it locked in with HNHH for all of the latest breaking news around Vybz Kartel, as well as the hottest music video releases.
This is a true example of the power of collaboration.
In a refreshing blend of global talents, BET Award nominee Camidoh, dancehall maestro Vybz Kartel, UK’s rising star Miss LaFamilia, and award-winning DJ Lara Fraser unite for a sparkling new single titled “Taxi Man.” With production from UK’s famed Toddla T and Ghana’s Streetbeatz, the song perfectly merges dancehall and afrobeats, aiming to brighten up the last summer days.
“Taxi Man” thrives on iconic dancehall vibes, enriched by Camidoh’s R&B and afrobeats blend, harmonized by Miss LaFamilia’s alluring vocals, with Vybz Kartel cementing the track’s core with his signature touch. To complement the audio delight, an insightful portrait-style music video directed by Amane Akbaraly provides a backstage look into the artists’ day at Zap Studios in London’s Camberwell.
Vybz Kartel, the Jamaican dancehall powerhouse who already boasts of hits such as “Dull Colour,” continues to dominate the music scene this summer. Meanwhile, Miss LaFamilia’s recent “Harder” is gaining momentum as a UK summer favorite. Camidoh isn’t trailing behind either. Following his nominations at the BET Awards and The Headies, and the success of his debut project L.I.T.A, he’s marking his territory in the music industry. Together with DJ Lara Fraser, this ensemble promises an enchanting auditory experience with “Taxi Man.”
DJ Lara Fraser shared her enthusiasm for the song, highlighting it as a “feel-good summer vibe about love and loyalty.” Miss LaFamilia echoed the sentiment, noting the joy in creating the track, while Camidoh emphasized the honor of collaborating with a legend like Vybz Kartel.
In an industry where collaborations are frequent but not always impactful, “Taxi Man” stands out as a testament to what happens when diverse talents synergize. It’s more than just a song, it’s a celebration of music without borders.
Vybz Kartel remains the reigning champion of dancehall, even throughout his incarceration. Police arrested and charged the dancehall star in 2011 in relation to the murder of Clive “Lizard” Williams. A few years later, the court convicted the “Romping Shop” singer and sentenced him to life in prison. Throughout his time behind bars, he remained one of the most consistent artists in the dancehall scene. At the same time of releasing an abundance of music, he attempted to appeal his conviction. Unfortunately, his attempts haven’t proven to be successful.
Most recently, Vybz Kartel took his appeal to the United Kingdom’s Privy Council where he tried to have “fresh evidence” introduced to his appeal. Kartel’s attorneys want to bring forth new evidence relating to the singer’s phone, which contained incriminating text messages and voice messages surrounding the murder of Williams. However, his attorney argued that there are signs of tampering with the phone during its time in police custody. Throughout the numerous attempts, Kartel’s chances of release became slim. Still, he remains hopeful that he could overturn his conviction in the future.
Privy Council Denies Vybz Kartel’s “Fresh Evidence” But Appeal Isn’t Over
ST. MARY – OCTOBER 16: Vybz Kartel performs onstage during MTV’s Tempo network launch celebration October 16, 2005 in St. Mary, Jamaica. (Photo by Scott Gries/Getty Images)
Per Dancehall Mag, the UK-based Privy Council, Jamaica’s final court, denied Vybz Kartel’s motion to introduce this “fresh evidence” of tampering. This came after they refused permission to appeal “additional grounds” brought forth by his legal team. Additionally, the court refused his co-defendants, Shawn Campbell, Kahira Jones and Andre St. John on similar grounds. “Having considered written submissions from the Appellants and the Respondent, we have agreed to report to Your Majesty as our opinion that permission to appeal to be refused in the application dated 20 November 2020,” the committee reported.
However, not all hope is lost in this case. Though his efforts to introduce new evidence have been denied, his actual appeal still stands and is outstanding. As Kartel continues to fight the case, it seems as though he will still have a chance to make an argument in front of Jamaica’s final court. Still, his attorney, Isat Buchanan, didn’t share any new information with the media. “The matter is sub judice,” Buchanan said, which is Latin for “under a judge.” We’ll keep you posted on anymore updates surrounding Vybz Kartel’s trial.
