Vybz Kartel, born Adidja Azim Palmer on January 7, 1976, is a Jamaican dancehall artist, songwriter, record producer, and entrepreneur.
He is known for his controversial lyrics and his flamboyant public persona.
Kartel was born in Portmore, Jamaica, and raised in Waterford. He began his musical career in the early 1990s, and released his first single, “Love Fat Woman,” in 1993.
In 1996, he formed the group Vybz Cartel with two friends, Mr. Lee and Escobar. The group released several singles, but disbanded in 1999.
In 1999, Kartel released his debut solo album, “Up 2 Di Time.” His music has been praised for its creativity and its social commentary.
He has often used his music to address issues such as poverty, violence and social injustice.
In 2011, Kartel was arrested and charged with the murder of Clive “Lizard” Williams.
Kartel was convicted of the murder in 2014, and sentenced to life in prison.
He has maintained his innocence, and has filed several appeals, but none have been successful.
Why is Vybz Kartel in prison?
Kartel was sentenced to life in prison in 2014 for the murder of Clive “Lizard” Williams.
He is currently serving his sentence at the Tower Street Adult Correctional Centre in Kingston, Jamaica.
Kartel was arrested in September 2011 for the murder of Williams, who was reportedly killed at Kartel’s home in Havendale, a suburb of Kingston.
The musician and three co-accused were tried for the murder in a 65-day trial that ended in March 2014.
After a hung jury on the first day of deliberations, the jury returned a guilty verdict on March 13, 2014.
Kartel was sentenced to life in prison with the possibility of parole after 35 years. He has maintained his innocence throughout the trial and appeals process.
He has filed several appeals, but none have been successful.
In April 2020, a three-member panel of the Jamaican Court of Appeal upheld Kartel’s conviction and sentence.
Kartel’s imprisonment has not stopped him from releasing new music.
He has released several albums and singles from prison, and his music continues to be popular in Jamaica and around the world.
In 2016, he was nominated for a Grammy Award for Best Reggae Album for his album “Vybz Kartel Present: GAZA.”
Kartel’s case has been controversial, and there have been allegations of corruption and bias in the trial.
His supporters have also accused the Jamaican government of targeting him because of his popularity and his outspoken views.
Clive “Lizard” Williams
Clive “Lizard” Williams was a Jamaican music producer and associate of Vybz Kartel.
He was killed in August 2011, allegedly at the hands of Kartel and three of his associates. Williams’ body has never been found.
He was born in 1985 in Kingston, Jamaica.
He began his career as a music producer in the early 2000s.
He worked with a number of artists, including Kartel, Beenie Man and Mavado.
Lizard was known for his unique sound and his ability to produce catchy melodies.
In August 2011, he was reportedly killed at Kartel’s home in Havendale, a suburb of Kingston.
Kartel and three of his associates were arrested and charged with his murder. The trial lasted for 65 days and ended in March 2014.
After a hung jury on the first day of deliberations, the jury returned a guilty verdict on March 13, 2014. Kartel and his three associates were sentenced to life in prison.
Lizard’s body has never been found.
His family and friends have continued to search for him, but they have not been successful. The case remains open, and the police are still investigating.
How much is Vybz Kartel worth?
Kartel’s net worth is estimated to be around $5 million.
He has earned his wealth through his music career, which has included chart-topping singles, albums, and collaborations with other artists.
Kartel has also earned money from his clothing line, record label and other business ventures.