Beenie Man Still Reigns: Kartel's Day 2 Doesn't Change the King

The recent buzz around Vybz Kartel's performance has left many long-time dancehall fans scratching their heads and, frankly, disappointed. While any appearance from the incarcerated artist is noteworthy, let's call a spade a spade: the performance simply lacked the raw energy and authentic "vybe" we've come to expect from the self-proclaimed "King of Dancehall."

It's hard to ignore the stark contrast when comparing this recent showing to the consistent vibrancy and undeniable stage presence of the true reigning monarch, King Beenie Man.

Kartel's performance felt… manufactured. Relying heavily on pre-recorded tracks and needing the support of artists like Spice, Lil Kim, and Black Rhyno to fill the stage, it lacked the spontaneous combustion of a genuine dancehall set. Instead of the infectious rhythms and live interaction we crave, it often felt more akin to a rap concert, a far cry from the pulsating heart of dancehall.

Where was the improvisation? The lyrical dexterity responding to the crowd's energy? The seamless transitions that keep a dancehall crowd moving for hours? These are the hallmarks of a Beenie Man performance. When Beenie takes the stage, it's a masterclass in controlling the rhythm, engaging the audience, and delivering hit after hit with an undeniable live energy. His performances are a testament to decades spent honing his craft, a vibrant celebration of dancehall culture in its purest form.

The recent Kartel showing, while perhaps a welcome glimpse for fans, ultimately felt like a shadow of his former glory, heavily reliant on past hits rather than a present, electrifying performance. It begs the question: can you truly claim the title of "King" when the performance feels more like a playback than a powerful reign?

Billboard.com might have their opinions, but for many of us who live and breathe dancehall, the answer is clear. Beenie Man continues to demonstrate, performance after performance, why he holds the crown. His energy is infectious, his connection with the audience is palpable, and his commitment to live performance is unwavering.

Let's be honest, the "vybe" was undeniably missing from Kartel's recent showing. The true king continues to wear his crown with pride and deliver the authentic dancehall experience we all know and love. Long live King Beenie Man!

Disclaimer: Respect to all the artists who performed at Vybz Kartel’s concert. It’s all about the music - not feelings! Respect to Vybz Kartel.