Jamaican international artist Vybz Kartel has pledged to collaborate with two local artists following a meeting hosted by President Dr. Irfaan Ali in Georgetown on Friday.
Kartel is currently in Guyana for the Str8 Vybz Rum launch, scheduled for Saturday, and is expected to return in May for the Hits and Jams Genesis Independence Weekend Baderation Mega Concert.
During his visit, he met with the President and local musicians at State House, where he shared insights about his life experiences, including his time in prison and the lessons he has learned. The engagement also provided an opportunity for local musicians to ask questions and seek advice.
Kartel encouraged the artists to actively promote and market themselves while emphasizing the importance of authenticity in their music. He urged them to “sing your truth and keep it real,” drawing inspiration from their personal experiences. Additionally, he motivated a differently-abled artist, encouraging him not to let his disability hinder his musical journey.
Local artist Alabama expressed gratitude to Kartel for inspiring fellow musicians, while female dancehall, reggae, and soca artist Mattick Queen thanked him for creating a platform that supports female artists. Meanwhile, another local artist, Acidic, seized the opportunity to request a collaboration with Kartel.
In response, Kartel promised to return to Guyana before the May concert to record two collaborations—one with a male artist and another with a female artist.
“Vybz Kartel will be coming back to Guyana before the show, and we will do a showcase featuring the local artists. Things are gonna come out of that—two collaborations. One with me and a man, one with me and a ‘oman,’” Kartel assured.
President Ali welcomed the initiative, stating that artists will audition prior to the collaborations. He lightheartedly shared that he has written over 200 songs and enjoys songwriting. Additionally, he reaffirmed the government’s commitment to supporting local artists and thanked Kartel for being a source of motivation and inspiration to the local music industry.
