Embattled Dancehall superstar, Vybz Kartel, is no stranger to controversy; seemingly thriving at every opportunity in spite of endless speculation circling his personal and professional life. However, the mounting legal woes “Di Teacha” faces may be too much to overcome.

Controversy was the moniker that helped build Kartel’s reputation as one of Dancehall’s greatest and most improvisational lyricists. His rise to super stardom from 2002-2005 featured singles such as Tek Buddy, Emergency, Sweet To Di Belly & Picture This; showing a blatant irreverence for political correctness whilst winning legions of fans with his ability to paint vivid, realistic images of several topics. Additionally, Kartel never showed a hesitancy to share his views on political and social issues; displaying an intellect and consciousness that few Dancehall/Reggae artistes in history have shown since the genres became popular.

During his 2007-2009, a feud with fellow Bounty Killer protégé, Mavado, Kartel sparked debate with singles like Send a Hell and Weh Dat Fah over his religious beliefs while intensifying the Gaza-Gully rivalry that, at one point, turned increasingly violent amongst fans. Additionally, his “Daggering” songs, most notably, Ramping Shop, raised the eyre of many established Jamaican figures; from Ardenne High School principal, Esther Tyson to the Jamaica Broadcasting Commission, who temporarily banned his song from airplay. Nevertheless, Kartel’s resoluteness to test boundaries and provide shock value set him a cut above the rest as an artiste and a pop culture icon.