Crown Him or Keep Him? Reggae Sumfest to Name Vybz Kartel “King of Dancehall”—Is Beenie Man Still Worthy of the Throne?

In what could be one of the most controversial moves in dancehall history, Reggae Sumfest 2025 is reportedly planning to officially crown Vybz Kartel the “King of Dancehall.”  But this bold move isn’t sitting well with everyone, especially given that the title was already publicly bestowed on Beenie Man back in 2009—a title he has fiercely claimed since his 2004 hit track “King of the Dancehall.”

So the question now burning through the dancehall community like a lit torch through dry bush is: Has Vybz Kartel truly earned the crown? Or is Beenie Man still the rightful King?

The Crown and the Controversy

Dancehall, like any cultural kingdom, thrives on identity, legacy, and fierce loyalty. The title of “King” isn’t just for show—it’s a badge of honor, bestowed by the people, the streets, the charts, and the culture itself.

When Beenie Man declared himself “King of the Dancehall” in 2004, it wasn’t just a boast—it was backed by decades of hit records, international recognition, and a presence so magnetic that even his rivals couldn’t deny his dominance. In 2009, Reggae Sumfest cemented that legacy by formally crowning Beenie Man as King. At the time, there was little dispute.

But times have changed.

Enter Vybz Kartel: The People's Champion

Fast forward to 2025, and Vybz Kartel’s influence has reached near-mythical status. Despite serving over a decade behind bars, his output never slowed. His lyrics, lingo, and lifestyle shaped dancehall’s entire modern identity. Since his release from prison on July 31, 2024, Kartel has sold out venues across the globe, released new chart-topping material, and reignited a loyal fanbase that spans from Kingston to Qatar.

It’s undeniable—Kartel didn’t just influence dancehall, he reconstructed it.

So if Beenie Man laid the foundation, did Kartel build the mansion?

Can There Be Two Kings?

Here’s where the argument turns into war.

In Jamaican culture, the idea of two kings in one kingdom doesn’t sit well. As Vybz Kartel himself said years ago, “Dancehall is not a democracy; it's a dictatorship.” In this world, there is only one throne.

Some argue that Beenie Man’s legacy is being overshadowed by nostalgia and sentiment. Yes, he’s a legend—but is he still running the place? Meanwhile, Kartel’s cultural grip is as strong as ever, even after a 13-year hiatus from performing live. His influence on younger artists, slang, and even fashion is unmatched. So, are we witnessing a long-overdue coronation—or a premature dethroning?

Are We in a Honeymoon Phase?

Let’s not pretend that Kartel's current glow-up doesn’t come with emotional baggage. Fans waited 13 years for his release. His first live performance was not just a concert—it was a historic event. But let’s be honest: are we caught up in the moment? Is this Kartel mania simply the result of a collective outpouring of love and relief?

Time will tell whether this resurgence has staying power or if we’re blinded by the shine of his comeback.

Other Contenders: Who Else Is in the Royal Running?

While the Beenie vs. Kartel debate dominates headlines, there are a few others who’ve quietly built empires of their own:

• Bounty Killer – The Warlord may not wear the crown, but many argue he’s the godfather of dancehall’s golden generation. Without him, there might be no Beenie or Kartel.

• Shabba Ranks – The original Grammy-winning dancehall don. His international success in the '90s set the tone for globalizing the genre.

• Popcaan – Once Kartel’s protégé, Popcaan has carved his own lane with a unique sound and international collaborations.

• Masicka – With lyrical dexterity and consistent bangers, he's often called the next in line—perhaps the "Prince of Dancehall"?

Still, none of them—at least for now—have commanded the genre quite like Beenie and Kartel.

So... Who’s the Real King?

Beenie Man—The foundation. The legend. The energy god. The one who claimed the title, earned it, and defended it for two decades.

Vybz Kartel—The innovator. The voice of the streets. The man who reshaped the genre, even from behind bars.

One built the temple. The other lit it on fire and rebuilt it in his own image.

Maybe the problem isn’t who the King is. Maybe the problem is thinking there can only be one.

So tell us—who wears the crown in your eyes? Beenie or Kartel? Or is it time to throw tradition out the window and admit: Dancehall might just have two kings... and the throne ain’t big enough for both.

Drop your thoughts in the comments or tag us @caribbeanemagazine with your pick for the real “King of Dancehall.” Let the debate begin.