Economic impact of 'successful' Vybz Kartel concert to be analysed- Premier
The Premier was speaking at a press conference today, March 21, 2025, when he spoke on the concern and other matters, including his recent attendance at the 76th authority meeting of the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) in Saint Martin.
Although criticised in some sections of society regarding allowing Vybz Kartel, who had a murder conviction against him overturned, to perform in the territory, the show held behind Ralph T. O’Neal Complex on Tortola saw more than five thousand people attend.
Economic impact being finalised
Premier Wheatley, who attended the concert, said it was “an amazing event” in which Vybz Kartel and other artistes entertained thousands of fans who came to the territory for the show.
“The show undoubtedly generated significant economic activity and stimulated the economy.
“We are beginning the process of analysing its economic impact and will provide an update in due course. For now, I’m confident that the hotels, rental car companies, vendors, restaurants, ferries, taxis, gas stations, clothing stores, salons, and barber shops are happy with the outcome,” Premier Wheatley stated.
The Premier said he has tasked the Acting Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Sustainable Development, Joseph Smith Abbott, with getting the necessary data.
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26 Responses to “Economic impact of 'successful' Vybz Kartel concert to be analysed- Premier”
Where the evidence?
more preaching to the youths about sex drugs violence, fast life and gangs? (Easter incoming)
more youths to pull more stunts on vising artist? are we gonna hire and pay local bodyguard's when artist come to perform now? or put strain on the police to be up under the artist everywhere when they could be patrolling?
usvi criminals alrdy send there message. Dont come to st thomas with no jewlery after that stunt yall pull on pressure..
was it worth it?
Still waiting.
It's all hype and very little substance. So what if youtube shows a show from Tortola. Are those who watch it youtube or streamed it live going to come here because of it? I doubt that because Tortola wasn't advertised or shown. Mr Palmer was shown and his fans will watch his next broadcast but will they come here because of it? I doubt that
Dancehall and Reggae patrons do travel to events but they go to where has events regularly.
The government shouldn't be keeping shows all year. Subsidize festival and a musicfest but to do spot shows is childish mentality in my opinion.
Would the same crowd have showed up if it was just Vybz Kartel alone? Yes. So all the extra was waste of money and they would've known that if they used their own money but they used the people's money amd want to flex off on us after spending our money amd then tell us how great it is for us. If it was so great use your Own money next time.