JamRadio NewsDesk | Entertainment
London, UK — In a moment that felt more like myth than reality, Vybz Kartel made his long-awaited return to the UK stage at Wireless Festival 2025, marking his first performance on British soil in two decades. The dancehall icon, freshly freed after serving 13 years in prison, headlined Sunday’s finale at Finsbury Park with a set that was both a celebration and a coronation.
Vybz Kartel-"Worl' Boss" makes triumphant return to Wireless Festival
A Historic Homecoming
Kartel’s appearance was part of Drake’s three-night Wireless takeover, which culminated in a global-themed showcase featuring Burna Boy, Popcaan, Spice, and Rema. But it was Kartel — the self-styled Worl’ Boss — who stole the spotlight. A sea of Jamaican flags waved as he took the stage, visibly moved by the crowd’s roaring welcome. “Twenty years I haven’t been here. It’s a pleasure,” he told fans.
Fresh off his explosive headline set at the St. Kitts Music Festival, where he delivered a 78-minute performance that left Warner Park Stadium in awe, Kartel lit up Wireless with the same fire and finesse.
The Performance
For over 90 minutes, Kartel delivered a blistering set packed with classics like Picture This, Fever, and Romping Shop, the latter performed alongside Spice, who later joined him for Conjugal Visit. He also brought out Moliy for her hit Shake It to the Max, blending generations and genres in a show that felt like a dancehall summit.
Drake’s Tribute
Drake, who trimmed his own set to give Kartel the spotlight, called the performance a “lifestyle moment.” He later joined Kartel, Popcaan, and Central Cee on stage for Hotline Bling, telling the crowd: “The World Boss is home.”
Kartel and Drake show love and respect for each other at Wireless 2025
What’s Next
Kartel’s Wireless set was more than a performance — it was a statement. With his Grammy nomination earlier this year and a world tour underway, the deejay is poised for a full-circle resurgence. His next stop? Reggae Sumfest in Montego Bay, where he’ll be officially crowned King of the Dancehall by none other than Spice.
Kartel’s return wasn’t just a headline — it was a cultural moment. And if Wireless 2025 proved anything, it’s that the Worl’ Boss hasn’t missed a beat.