Tourism Minister Edmund Bartlett is predicting a historic turnout for Reggae Sumfest 2025, citing the inclusion of dancehall legend Vybz Kartel as a major catalyst. Following Kartel’s release from prison in July 2024, his popularity has surged to unprecedented levels — and Bartlett believes this momentum will drive this year’s Montego Bay-based festival to new heights.
“This year’s Sumfest is shaping up to be the biggest and best in its history,” Bartlett told reporters on Thursday. “The mystique surrounding Vybz Kartel is powerful — it’s already trending heavily across social media. His presence alone is expected to boost attendance through the roof.”
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Kartel, who was freed after the UK Privy Council overturned his 2014 murder conviction due to juror misconduct and a compromised trial, has been on a winning streak. Since his return to the spotlight, the artist has played to sold-out crowds in Kingston, New York, London, Miami, and Port of Spain, reaffirming his place as dancehall royalty.
He’s slated to perform on July 18, joining a high-profile lineup that includes Masicka, Tommy Lee Sparta, Govana, Valiant, Moliy, and Skeng. The festival officially opens on July 17 and wraps up July 19, with events hosted at venues throughout Montego Bay, including the iconic Catherine Hall Entertainment Centre.
This will mark Kartel’s first Sumfest appearance in over a decade, and anticipation is at a fever pitch. Fans and sponsors alike have flooded social media with excitement, suggesting this year’s event may surpass all prior records.
Beyond the entertainment value, Bartlett emphasized the significant economic boost Reggae Sumfest delivers to the Montego Bay region.
“The impact extends well beyond music,” he said. “Local businesses — hotels, eateries, drivers, craft vendors — all stand to benefit enormously from the influx of visitors.”
As the countdown begins, all eyes are on Kartel’s return to the Sumfest stage — a performance that could define not just the summer, but dancehall history.
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