Vybz Kartel has emphasized the importance of recognizing Dancehall as a genre deserving of its own category at the Grammy Awards. While he respects Reggae as the foundational “OG” genre that has significantly contributed to Jamaica’s music legacy, he believes that Dancehall has earned its place.
During an interview on Drink Champs, Kartel argued that Dancehall having its own category at the Grammy’s is a topic that has been in discussion for years, and it is long overdue. He explained that the genre has produced internationally recognized Dancehall stars, therefore, there should be a category to honor the accomplishments of these entertainers.
He made reference to Sean Paul who he recognized as a Reggae artist, but also as an international Dancehall icon. Kartel then distinguished artists naming Damion “Junior Gong” Marley and Bob Marley who he says are Reggae artists, compared to himself and Bounty Killer who are more Dancehall acts.
“Sean Paul is a Reggae, we’d more classify him as Dancehall and he’s international. So we have the criteria, we have big international Dancehall stars as opposed to a Junior Gong who’s Reggae, as opposed to a Bob Marley who’s Reggae,” said Kartel.
Entertainer Buju Banton was also mentioned, who Kartel says made the transition from being a hardcore Dancehall artist to now doing Reggae. This achievement was lauded by the entertainer, commending him for being successful in both genres.
“He was super successful as a Dancehall artist and super successful as a Reggae artist not many people do that,” he said.
In response to whether he would ever switch to Reggae, Kartel firmly stated that his loyalty remains with doing Dancehall music, though in the past he has made Reggae singles.
“I’m Dancehall forever man, but I do Reggae songs,” Kartel proclaimed.
Kartel who was nominated for the 2025 Grammy Award for Best Reggae Album for his EP ‘Party With Me’, was defeated in the category by music legend Bob Marley with ‘One Love – Music Inspired By The Film (Deluxe)‘.
Watch Vybz Kartel’s interview on Drink Champs below:
