Durrant Pate/Contributor

Fresh from his successful ‘Freedom Street’ concert last week, Vybz Kartel landed another big gig at the Summerjam Festival 2025 in Cologne, Germany in July, where he will be the special guest artiste.

Dancehall’s self-professed ‘World Boss’ is returning to Summerjam after more than two decades. The promoters are excited at his return saying, “Fans from all over Europe will have the opportunity to experience the most important personality in dancehall up close and personal after more than 12 years in prison.” 

They say this will be a rare chance to experience the deejay up close, celebrate his greatest hits and become part of an unforgettable moment in music history. 

According to promoters, “Vybz Kartel’s performance at the Summerjam Festival 2025 is a historic event and a unique opportunity to experience the dancehall legend live. After his release, this is one of only a few confirmed performances worldwide – and the only one in Europe so far. This exclusivity makes the Summerjam Festival a must-see for all dancehall fans.“

“His importance for the dancehall scene can hardly be overestimated,” emphasises organizer, Marius Brozi who added that Kartel has not only inspired countless artists, including stars like Popcaan and Drake, but also revolutionized the international perception of the genre. 

His influence extends far beyond music, as he has significantly influenced fashion, language and pop culture. Kartel is considered one of the most influential artists in the dancehall scene. 

With hits like Fever, Clarks and Summertime, he had a significant impact on the genre and influenced numerous artists around the world. Kartel’s innovative lyrics and distinctive style earned him the title of “World Boss”. 

Despite personal challenges and a long prison sentence, which was lifted in 2024 due to procedural errors, he remained musically active and continuously set new standards. Over the years, he released numerous hits and albums from prison, including the critically acclaimed “King of the Dancehall (2016) and To Tanesha (2020). 

Through his music, which reflects the reality of life for many Jamaicans, he has become the mouthpiece of a whole generation of dancehall fans. 

With the Gaza Nation, he has created a global movement. Originally named after his hometown of Portmore (“Gaza”), the Gaza Nation stands for loyalty, authenticity and the fight against injustice. 

The lineup for Summerjam so far are:

• VYBZ KARTEL
• SHENSEEA
• BEENIE MAN
• ALBOROSIE
• INNER CIRCLE
• GREEEN
• IRIE RÉVOLTÉS
• ETANA
• PAULA HARTMANN
• K.I.Z
• MAX HERRE & JOY DENALANE