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

Ghanaian dancehall artiste Charles Nii Armah Mensah, popularly known as Shatta Wale, has expressed immense joy following an endorsement from Jamaican music legend Vybz Kartel, who referred to him as the "King of Dancehall" during his Freedom Concert.

In a media interaction on January 8, 2024, Shatta Wale, who had just returned to the country, likened the endorsement he received from Vybz Kartel to winning a Grammy Award.

He emphasised that performing alongside the Jamaican dancehall legend has always been his dream.

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

He continued, “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."

Shatta Wale also explained his choice to perform three specific songs during his stage performance in Jamaica.

“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 said. "I know some people were wondering why I didn't perform 'Dancehall King', but that song is for Ghanaians only," he added.

Background

On December 31, 2024, Shatta Wale made history by performing at Vybz Kartel’s ‘Freedom Concert’ in Kingston, Jamaica.

This concert was particularly huge as it marked Vybz Kartel's first live performance in over 14 years, following his release from prison.

During Shatta Wale's performance, Vybz Kartel dubbed the Ghanaian artiste the "King of Dancehall in Africa."

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JHM/EB