“What must rise must fall – what goes up must come down”? I’m not sure how much of an edge Vybz Kartel has lost in the dancehall despite being incarcerated since October of 2011. Time flies so fast, I can’t believe it’s been one year since Jamaica’s “World Boss” has been imprisoned, still waiting to face charges that include possession of ganja, illegal possession of a firearm, conspiracy to commit murder and two murder charges.

But just like the legendary TuPac and Bob Marley – the living legend Vybz Kartel has seemingly left a stack of chunes behind that are now being released on what seems like a weekly or bi-weekly basis. Personally, I don’t think I’ve had a chance to miss Vybz Kartel as a DJ– not yet – and a couple of new songs a month is just fine for my DJ purposes. Give it another year or two, and maybe I won’t be saying the same. The Jamaican perspective for those living in Jamaica may be different, but up here in Canada, we never hot the chance to see Vybz Kartel visit to perform live.

The dancehall scene in Jamaica and abroad has not seen any significant change since Vybz has been away. He, along with Mavado, was so far ahead of the rest – the virtual top of the bottle neck. Dancehall has not lost Vybz Kartel yet – he is still inside the mix and has not yet become obsolete ( it is possible though that this day will come). In the mean time – we have others who have risen to the bottle neck – artists such as Konshens, I-Octane, Cham, Popcaan, Tommy Lee, and even Mr. Vegas.

Today – dancehall is in transition – and we must be prepared to accept change. Dancehall isn’t currently being run by good songs or even good riddims – it is being run by good “popular” artists, and by good marketing and branding. There may be one or two exceptions to the rule (i.e. Mavado), but today we are seeing a different kind of dancehall, and the transformation without Kartel is not yet complete, so it is too early to judge.

BTW – I’m still trying to find someone who’s read Vybz Kartel’ book (yes I said book!) – “Speaking Behind Bars”, released last month. I’ve heard interesting things about this book, and what it “reveals” about Jamaica and some of its hidden truths. Vybz Kartel also answers questions regarding his bleaching and other shenanigans. I look forward to getting into this book myself, but I am very curious to know what people think. If you have read the book, feel free to leave a comment as to your thoughts.