Podcast Title: The Breakfast Club
Host/Author: iHeartPodcasts
Episode: Drink Champs: Vybz Kartel
Release Date: February 23, 2025

Introduction

The episode features an in-depth conversation with Vybz Kartel, a legendary figure in the dancehall scene. Hosted by Nore, DJ EFN, and Cypher Sounds, the discussion delves into Kartel's personal journey, his experiences in prison, his musical evolution, and his impact on the global dancehall culture.

Early Influences and Musical Beginnings

Vybz Kartel reminisces about his early inspirations, highlighting influential artists who shaped his style:

• [05:08] Vybz Kartel: "Buju Banton is my favorite dancehall artist. Like, he inspired me. Yeah, man, Buju Banton and Ninja Man, my two favorites."

He credits his uncles for sparking his interest in music, mentioning how watching them flow on beats as a child ignited his passion for the art form.

• [12:35] Vybz Kartel: "They inspired me. Like, seriously though, they got me interested in the art form, right? Just watching people flowing on beats was crazy for me as a kid."

Rise to Fame and Early Career

Kartel discusses the formation of his group Vibes Cartel and his solo ventures:

• [13:00] Vybz Kartel: "Cartel. As said by Billboard, as said by the fans, Rolling Stones, right? Vice Cartel of the King Numbers is there to prove it as it relates to dancehall."

He emphasizes his dedication and the hard work that propelled him to the top of the dancehall hierarchy.

Experiences in Prison

A significant portion of the conversation centers around Kartel's time in prison, how it affected his music, and his personal growth:

• [08:07] Vybz Kartel: "And just got out of prison six months ago. And now I'm walking the red carpet. Joy, that's a blessing."

He highlights the challenges of recording music behind bars and his determination to continue his craft despite limited resources.

• [15:19] Vybz Kartel: "We did Viking, which is now re-released 10-year anniversary. We did King of the Dancehall, which Fever is on that soul goal."

Kartel reflects on his resilience and the support from his fans and family during his incarceration.

Musical Evolution and Impact

Kartel elaborates on how his music evolved over the years, blending personal experiences with broader social themes:

• [49:21] Vybz Kartel: "Dancehall came about on reggae beats until it found its own niche... dancehall is just like sex, drugs, you know what I mean? I like it."

He distinguishes between reggae and dancehall, noting dancehall as the more rebellious and contemporary cousin of reggae.

• [57:44] Vybz Kartel: "Dancehall is forever. I'm a rip for the culture. I stand on the shoulders of giants, right? Bounty Killer, Buju Banton... we're here to represent for the culture."

Personal Life and Relationships

Kartel opens up about his relationships, especially focusing on his experiences with his baby mothers and the challenges of maintaining family ties while managing a high-profile career:

• [112:12] Vybz Kartel: "I did an album for Shorty. It's literally called To Tanisha because her government is Tanisha. It was a big song."

He expresses gratitude towards the women who supported him and helped raise his children despite the turmoil in his personal life.

• [112:28] Vybz Kartel: "A lot of people surprised that I got the visa... because I changed up my whole thing and I'm good now."

Cultural Influence and Global Reach

Kartel discusses the global influence of Jamaican music and its cultural significance:

• [65:08] Vybz Kartel: "The homage is there. Dancehall and reggae are the DNA for Jamaica. So is dancehall. It has layers and is deeply ingrained in the community."

He highlights Jamaica's significant contribution to global music, particularly in influencing genres like reggaeton and Afrobeats.

Philosophy and Personal Growth

Reflecting on his time in prison and personal struggles, Kartel shares his philosophy on life, resilience, and the importance of mental health:

• [157:35] Vybz Kartel: "Graves disease is an autoimmune thyroid disease... everything is a technique. Once you crack the code, you win."

He emphasizes the importance of embracing one's vulnerabilities and seeking help, breaking the stigma around mental health in the black community.

• [160:20] Vybz Kartel: "Graves disease... it affects your pituitary glands... makes you sweat a lot, your heart palpitate... that's why I keep wearing my shades."

Future Endeavors and Legacy

Looking ahead, Kartel speaks about his aspirations and the legacy he aims to leave behind:

• [43:17] Vybz Kartel: "We want to do it every year in Jamaica... it's going to be an annual event."

He envisions expanding festivals globally, promoting dancehall culture, and mentoring the next generation of artists.

• [86:22] Vybz Kartel: "We live in Jamaica's culture... so big up all that legend... because we influence so many people."

Notable Quotes

1. On Resilience:

   • Vybz Kartel ([08:07]): "And just got out of prison six months ago. And now I'm walking the red carpet. Joy, that's a blessing."

2. On Musical Evolution:

   • Vybz Kartel ([49:21]): "Dancehall is just like sex, drugs, you know what I mean? I like it. Violence. It's deeper than that. It has many layers."

3. On Cultural Influence:

   • Vybz Kartel ([65:08]): "Dancehall and reggae are the DNA for Jamaica. So is dancehall. It has layers and is deeply ingrained in the community."

4. On Personal Growth:

   • Vybz Kartel ([157:35]): "Once you crack the code, you win. So I started using my matt like, you know that sponge they give you to sleep on to imitate the cushion sound in the studio across the Mic."

5. On Legacy:

   • Vybz Kartel ([86:22]): "Jamaicanos, a lot of us, especially back in the day, we're well read. And we watch everything that's happening in the world."

Conclusion

The episode of The Breakfast Club provides a comprehensive look into Vybz Kartel's life, exploring his rise in the dancehall industry, the adversities he faced, including his incarceration, and his unwavering dedication to his craft and community. Kartel's narrative is one of resilience, passion, and an enduring commitment to shaping and preserving the cultural tapestry of dancehall music.

For those unfamiliar with Vybz Kartel, this episode serves as an enlightening introduction to his profound impact on music and his personal journey of transformation and redemption.

Note: This summary is based on the provided transcript and aims to encapsulate the essence of the conversation while highlighting key moments and quotes.