Dancehall star Vybz Kartel is making a dramatic return to the stage after 14 years with his “Freedom Street” concert scheduled for New Year’s Eve (December 31) at Jamaica’s National Stadium.
It will be his first live appearance since he was released from prison two months ago after the Privy Council overturned his murder conviction.
“To my fans, this concert is for you. Freedom Street is not just a return – it’s a statement. I’ve waited as long for this moment as you have, and believe me, it’s going to be epic. The love and support over the years has been overwhelming, and now it’s time to celebrate together. See you on December 31st,” Kartel said.
Tickets for Freedom Street go on sale at 3am on August 31st and will initially be available online for various areas, including Bleachers, Grand Stand, In-Field and Centre Stage.
Physical ticket locations will be announced at a later date.
Produced by Downsound Entertainment, the concert is more than just a musical event. Joe Bogdanovich, CEO of Downsound Entertainment, and Robert Livingston, Managing Director, emphasized that “Freedom Street is a celebration of the resilience, artistry and unbreakable spirit of Vybz Kartel.”
“We at Downsound Entertainment are honored to bring this historic event to life. Demand will be huge, so I urge every fan to secure their tickets early. This is more than a performance; it’s a historic moment you don’t want to miss,” they continued.
Cordell ‘Skatta’ Burrell and Karla Jankee, members of the production team, stated: “The event will be electrifying and a night that will go down in dancehall history.”
Jankee also noted that “the National Stadium will be transformed into something truly spectacular for Freedom Street. We are not just putting on a concert; we are creating a full experience that will ring in the New Year with a bang. Expect only the best – from the set design to the lighting and special effects, it will be an unforgettable night for everyone in attendance.”
In preparation for the event, Kartel has been focusing on his health, sharing updates on social media of his gym sessions and a new diet plan carefully selected by his fiancée Sidem Ozturk.
He is also dealing with his Graves’ disease and recently traveled to St. Vincent and the Grenadines for treatment.
