Vybz Kartel recently appeared on the Drink Champs podcast, where he opened up about his Grammy nomination, his love for Afrobeat, and the influence of Jamaican music.

Here’s a roundup of the key points from his candid conversation:

Kartel Believes He Deserved the Grammy: Vybz Kartel expressed his belief that he should have won the Grammy, reflecting on his remarkable journey. He said, “Yeah, of course, I should have won the Grammy.” With his music consistently topping iTunes, Kartel has made his mark as one of the top artists in Jamaica and beyond. His success is undeniable, and many fans agree with him, showing their support online.

A Triumph Beyond the Award: Despite not winning the Grammy, Kartel emphasized the significance of his story. After 13 years in prison, he was nominated for an album recorded while incarcerated and later walked the red carpet. He called this a “success story,” demonstrating how far he’s come against the odds. While acknowledging the political aspects of the Grammy Awards, he made it clear that his journey is one of real triumph.

A Deep Respect for Bob Marley: Although he didn’t win the Grammy, Kartel made it clear he wasn’t bitter. “No, hell no. That’s Bob Marley,” he said, acknowledging Marley as the only artist who could have outshined him in the reggae world. Kartel’s respect for the reggae legend highlights his awareness of the genre’s rich legacy and his own place in it.

Kartel’s Love for Afrobeat Artists: Kartel shared his admiration for the Afrobeat genre and its leading artists. He praised Tyla for her popular track and Tems, who recently won a Grammy. Kartel also expressed his admiration for Wizkid and Burna Boy, even though they hadn’t collaborated. A special shout-out went to Shatta Wale from Ghana, whom he referred to as his “bro” and noted his impressive performance at Freedom Street.

Jamaica’s Unmatched Influence on Global Music: Kartel reflected on the global reach of Jamaican music. He pointed out that even though Jamaica is small compared to Nigeria, the island’s influence on the world of music is immense. From the power of reggae to its lasting impact on Afrobeat, Kartel emphasized how Jamaican culture continues to shape the global music scene.

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