Vybz Kartel: 5 Things To Know About The Convicted Dancehall Artist

From now on, you'll likely only think of this Jamaican dancehall star as a criminal after he and three of his associates were found guilty of murder on March 13, but here are some other things you should know about him. Vybz Kartel, a Jamaican rapper, singer and performer, has been thrust into the American spotlight after being found guilty of murder on March 13. But the music industry knew of Vybz (real name Adidja Palmer) long before he became a convicted criminal.

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Reading Time: 2 minute
March 14, 2014 8:38AM EDT
Who Is Vybz Kartel
Image Credit: Courtesy of Twitter

Who Is Vybz Kartel? 5 Things To Know

1. He Worked With Some Of The Best

The Jamaican performer dipped his toes into the mainstream from time to time, collaborating with Rihanna, Jay Z, Missy Elliott, Eminem, Lil Wayne, and many more massive stars over the course of his career.

2. His Career Has Been Riddled With Violence

Vybz’s murder trial was not his first brush with violence by any means. Just as he was rising to fame in 2003, Vybz was involved in a pre-planned clash with fellow performer Ninjaman at an annual dancehall festival in Portmore, Jamaica. The clash got totally out of hand, and Vybz and his entourage ended up brutally assaulting Ninjaman. Then in 2013, Vybz stood trial for the murder of St. Catherine businessman Barrington “Bossy” Burton. However, he was found not guilty in that case.

3. He Was An Entrepreneur

Besides having a vibrant music carrer, Vybz marketed his own line of liquor called Street Vybz Rum from 2008 to 2011. He also released his own line of condoms in 2008, and shoes in 2011. The singer then hosted his own reality show, “Teacha’s Pet,” on CVM Jamaica.

4. Light-Skinned Friend Looks Like Michael Jackson?

Throughout his career, Vybz has been criticized for perceived skin whitening. In response, Vybz claimed that the lightening of his skin was due to using “cake soap,” a certain kind of soap used prominently in Jamaica, intimating that the change was intentional.

5. He Has A Big Date Coming Up

Well, sort of. After being found guilty of murder on March 13, Mr. Kartel will be sentenced on March 27, and it will be determined whether or not we’ll ever see or hear this iconic dancehall singer perform again.

WATCH: Vybz Kartel – “Go Go Wine”

— Andrew Gruttadaro

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