Vybz Kartel’s triumph over adversity a testament to change—Premier Wheatley
And now, the iconic Dancehall artist, free once more, is set to take the stage in the Virgin Islands (VI) for his first concert outside of Jamaica tonight, March 15, 2025, a moment both historic and deeply symbolic, according to his VIs biggest self-confessed fan—Premier and Minister of Finance Dr the Hon Natalio D. Wheatley (R7)
The Vybz Kartel effect
At a press conference at the Village Cay Marina Resort, on March 14, 2025, Premier Wheatley unabashedly lauded the significance of the event, emphasising the inspirational message Kartel’s real-life journey conveys, particularly for and to the youth.
"I have to say, I am a fan of his work because he is extremely talented, and I think that’s clear and obvious for everyone to see but beyond the talent, he has a story to tell, despite the fact that he was in prison, despite his own health challenges, he is able to say, God is the greatest. That is a powerful message."
The Premier further heaping praise on the inherent broader impact of Kartel’s concert in the VI pointed to the economic and tourism benefits already being reaped.
"Hotels are booked, people are renting cars, additional ferries have been coming across, and we are seeing more arrivals at Beef Island Airport; this is what you call tourism. This is what you call the ‘Vybz Kartel effect.’ This will be one of the biggest shows, if not the biggest show, that the Virgin Islands has ever seen,” Dr Wheatley said.
Vybz Kartel’s, also called ‘Di Teacha’, influence extends beyond entertainment as his journey also serves as a stark reminder of the power of redemption, according to Dr Wheatley, who used the occasion to encourage the general public to embrace a mindset of positivity and support rather than that of condemnation.
"Some people preach a gospel of condemnation, ready to throw others away in the waste bin of life, but this brother has come through the fire, kept his family together, and now shares a message of upliftment. We must stop hating, stop being negative, and celebrate the power of change."
Redemption & the future
Mr Steve E. Parrillon, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of YOLO Promotions, the mastermind behind the event, spoke with passion about the realisation of this momentous occasion, "We have fans who’ve been dreaming, hoping one day they could see Vybz Kartel perform here and now, it's a reality. [Today], we’ll witness history."
Conceding the enormous challenges in bringing the concert to fruition while remaining steadfast in his vision, Mr Parrillon said, "There was doubt, there was criticism, but we pushed through because we believe in the power of music to unite people and inspire change."
The event, dubbed "Black on Black," is in its second year, growing exponentially in scale and significance.
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26 Responses to “Vybz Kartel’s triumph over adversity a testament to change—Premier Wheatley ”
People can only change if they not only acknowledge their wrong, but mean it with actions. What is Kartel doing different that he was not doing before? We only know what he shows us. Ask the real yardie about the man, your jaw will drop off. He didn't hurt no one for you so you can be quick to say what you said. But there are things he has done that he still ain't pay for, and people KNOW it, that is why he brings unrest where he goes. If a man really changed, he will move different. Hands down.
Still here promoting the same lifestyle. lol. Who am I to judge? Sounds like he had a good remorseful Christian party last night.
Well Natalio if nothing else you will have impressive photos for your album. Can't wait to see what your next party is going to be, as you continue to spend our monies to entertain yourself and hide it under the idea that you are stimulating the economy. Continuing to spend on frivolous nonsense while seniors get $200 a month to live off of, and the country looks like &#!&!
Finally Steve will be able to go back to work, because he been missing a lot of days over this nonsense. He trying to get rich, and I honestly wish him well with that. He keeps getting bashed for this concert but I think if this concert was done without tax payers monies we would all be feeling much better. Watch to see the caliber of people that will be coming out to the concert. Watch how they look, Watch how they dress, watch how they will be speaking and behaving. BVI God is not pleased with us. We are going to continue to suffer if we don't do better. Our actions invite demons to come and stay in our quarters long after the vessel that brings them leaves. We are destroying our home. The BVI has become a place with no morals, no standards and no laws, and NO VISION. In order to get better we have to be honest with ourselves, our brothers, our sisters, our friends and the people that matter. If something is wrong it's wrong.
Everyone wants people to forget their negative past and past mistakes, but when it’s someone else, we’re supposed to hold it over their head.
I strongly believe Vybes is in a position where he’s a valuable asset both here and around the world. Life-changing experiences teach us important lessons—some learn, some don’t, but it’s all in God’s timing.
Of course, there are always better things my tax money could have been used for. Even though that’s not the case here, I’m not going to hate on the Premier, Steve, or Vybes.
I hope everyone attending the event has a great time. Haters are going to hate—that’s their job..
You talking pure s$!t, bring The late Bob Marley Sons then and only then you could say that shit!