08-18-24 VYBZ KARTEL

·20 min·2 clips

Vybz Kartel, the king of dancehall, is finally free after 13 years behind bars—what happens next?

The episode opens by announcing Vybz Kartel's release from Tower Street Prison in Kingston, Jamaica, on July 31st, after 13 years incarcerated on a murder charge that was ultimately thrown out. Host Lisa Evers introduces the panel: attorney Aysop Buchanan, who fought the legal battles; DJ Rabo Ranks from London; and Shakira Mitchell, co-host of JA Radio TV in Toronto. Buchanan confirms Kartel is completely free, with double jeopardy applying, and details the constitutional breaches that led to his release. It's revealed that Kartel secretly suffers from Graves' disease and heart disease, with only 37% heart function, and is under medical care. Despite this, he released a mixtape, 'First Week Out,' within 24 hours of freedom. Rabo Ranks explains Kartel's unique influence as a digital trailblazer who caught the mobile phone wave early, spreading his music globally. Shakira Mitchell describes the euphoric public reaction to his release and notes he's now seen as a movement, not just an artist. The panel discusses Kartel's potential future performances, with Rabo suggesting he might not debut in Jamaica due to overwhelming demand. Buchanan addresses the inhumane prison conditions Kartel endured, like using a bucket for a toilet, and touches on human rights issues. The conversation also covers possible compensation for wrongful incarceration, with Buchanan mentioning awarded court costs from the legal battle. Rabo shares that Kartel's streaming numbers doubled in a week post-release, highlighting his lasting popularity. The episode concludes with reflections on Kartel's resilience and the anticipation for his new music, which may explore themes of freedom across genres.

As heard by us

A brisk look at Vibes Cartel's legal ordeal, musical influence, and uncertain future after freedom.

Street Soldiers frames Vibes Cartel's freedom after 13 years behind bars as both a legal turning point and a test of what comes next. The conversation moves cleanly from the attention around his July 31 release to the pressure for a live return, using guest commentary to show…

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Why you'd press play

Press play when Vibes Cartel's freedom opens the door to the next question: what does life sound like after 13 years behind bars?

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