VYBZ KARTEL AT THE 02: Best Moments from Vybz Kartel’s Long-Awaited Return at London’s O2. For over 13 years, fans have been waiting to see Vybz Kartel grace a stage again. On September 4th and 5th, the impossible became reality when “The Worl’ Boss” took over London’s O2 Arena. From the moment the venue began to fill, anticipation buzzed through the air, echoing the weight of history about to unfold. The night delivered nothing short of legendary, here are the standout moments that defined Kartel’s historic shows.
1. The DJ warming Up
Between sets, DJs kept the arena charged with classic riddims and dubplates. The crowd’s response — dancing, pulling up tunes, and shouting lyrics word-for-word — transformed the O2 into a full-on Jamaican sound clash. It was a powerful nod to Dancehall’s roots and proof of how the culture thrives on shared energy.
2. Kartel’s Jail Cell Entrance
Few artists could deliver an opening like this. The stage was set as a prison cell — a symbolic nod to Kartel’s years behind bars. As the metal bars slid open and he walked out, the O2 erupted. Dressed in a crimson red Givenchy co-ord, set his prescience. His fan’s screams, flashing lights, and chants of his name filled the arena. It felt as though he was being released from prison all over again. It was like a defiant celebration, and a powerful statement of connection. You could feel Kartel’s gratitude and bond with his fans instantly.
3. Rvssian’s Cameo
The chemistry between Kartel and Rvssian is undeniable. When the producer joined him on stage, the energy skyrocketed. Together, they ran through classics like ‘Straight Jeans & Fitted’ and ‘Jeans & Mesh Marina’, reminding everyone of the duo’s undeniable influence on Dancehall over the past decade. Rvssian’s presence turned the set into pure nostalgia fused with live energy. In addition to this, there were also guest appearances such as Ishawna and Shawn Storm also joined alongside Vybz on stage.
4. Kartel Performing Early Hits
The audience wasn’t just made up of Kartel’s day-one supporters, it spanned generations. Younger fans discovered timeless classics live for the first time, while veterans relived the soundtrack of their youth. That blend of ages in one space highlighted Kartel’s cross-generational influence and the lasting power of his catalogue.
5. Wizkid’s Surprise Appearance
The crowd was treated to a global crossover when Afrobeats superstar Wizkid hit the stage. Performing his smash hit ‘Closer’, he had the arena singing word for word, hands raised in unison. The Dancehall–Afrobeats linkup felt like a full-circle cultural moment, cementing Kartel’s influence far beyond Jamaica and showcasing the unity between Caribbean and African sounds.
6. ‘Romping Shop’
Only Kartel could deliver a 50-track setlist and keep the audience locked in from start to finish. From early-career staples like ‘Romping Shop’, ‘Nah Let Go’, ‘Bicycle’, ‘Clarks’, and ‘Proper English’ to newer anthems like ‘I Know’ and ‘Story Book’, he crafted a musical journey through his catalogue. The crowd’s energy never dipped, proof that Kartel’s discography is a cultural bible of Dancehall.
7. Playing Unreleased Tracks
In true Worl’ Boss fashion, Kartel didn’t just stick to the classics, he gave fans a taste of the future with snippets of unreleased material. Every preview sent the crowd into a frenzy, a reminder that his story is still unfolding and that his creativity continues to push boundaries.
8. When Kartel shouted “London!”
At times, the O2 felt more like Kingston than London. Flags waved high, lights illuminated the arena, and the audience’s call-and-response echoed like a street dance back home. When Kartel shouted “London!” The response was so deafening it felt like the roof might lift off. It was pure unity, an arena moving as one massive Dancehall family, a moment that will ripple globally now that Kartel can connect with fans in person again.
9. Performing ‘God Is the Greatest’
Beyond the music, the night carried raw emotion. Fans who had waited over a decade to see him live were visibly moved, reconnecting with their own personal stories through his songs. When Kartel performed ‘God Is the Greatest’, the atmosphere grew heavy with gratitude, resilience, and the unbreakable bond between artist and audience.
By the final track, one thing was undeniable: Vybz Kartel had delivered one of the most historic shows London has ever witnessed. His legacy as “The Worl’ Boss” was cemented not only through the music but through the energy and atmosphere he created. It was a rare mix of rebellion, joy, and unity. A night that will be talked about for years to come.
Photos by Josh Snaps
Words by Nickeeba Archer
