Receiving an endorsement from Vybz Kartel is like winning a 'Grammy' — Shatta Wale

Ghanaian dancehall artiste Charles Nii Armah Mensah, popularly known as Shatta Wale, has expressed immense pride and joy after being endorsed by Jamaican music legend Vybz Kartel, who referred to him as the "King of Dancehall."

The endorsement came during Shatta Wale's performance at Vybz Kartel's Freedom Concert on December 31, 2024, in Kingston, Jamaica.

The concert was historic as it marked Vybz Kartel’s first live performance in over 14 years following his release from prison. Shatta Wale described the moment as a dream come true, both for himself and his Shatta Movement fans, who have supported his journey from the beginning.

It has been beautiful, and it’s like a dream come true for Shatta Movement fans because everyone knew me from day one. For me to reach the level of Vybz Kartel and perform with him is such a good feeling

Shatta Wale likened the endorsement to winning a Grammy Award, highlighting Vybz Kartel’s global influence and iconic status.

For Vybz Kartel to endorse somebody like Shatta Wale is like winning a Grammy because he is a global icon; everyone loves him, and he is one of the greatest

Addressing song choices

Despite receiving some criticism for his setlist during the Freedom Concert, Shatta Wale clarified his song choices. He revealed that his team analyzed streaming data and selected tracks that resonated with the Jamaican audience.

My team checked the streaming algorithms, and because we were in Jamaica, people were tuning into songs like ‘On God’ and the one I did with Vybz Kartel. That’s why I performed those tracks to open up the market

He also addressed concerns about not performing his hit track "Dancehall King," stating,

I know some people were wondering why I didn’t perform ‘Dancehall King,’ but that song is for Ghanaians only.

Shatta Wale’s collaboration with Vybz Kartel and the endorsement from the Jamaican dancehall legend have further solidified his place as one of Africa’s leading dancehall artistes.

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