Life and career 1993–2008: Rise to prominence His hit song 'Fever' was certified gold in June 2020. Despite being imprisoned, Kartel continues to release new music prolifically, having released over 50 new songs in 2016 alone.
He will be eligible for parole once he has served a minimum of 35 years in prison. In 2014, Kartel was sentenced to life imprisonment for the murder of his associate Clive 'Lizard' Williams. Having collaborated with a number of hip hop and R&B artists such as Major Lazer, Rihanna, Jay-Z, Digga D and Unknown T, he has also been credited as an inspiration for the dancehall-infused work of a number of Western artists, including Drake, who has cited Kartel as being one of his 'biggest inspirations'. Kartel's singles include 'Romping Shop' (2009), 'Dancehall Hero' (2010), and 'Summer Time' (2011). As summarized by Rolling Stone, he 'attained folk-hero status in Jamaica with provocative lyrics, and a mischievous public persona', and 'few have captivated audience – or offended the sensibilities of its detractors – as consistently and thoroughly as Kartel.' Among his various nicknames, he is referred to as Worl' Boss. Adidja Azim Palmer (born 7 January 1976), better known as Vybz Kartel, is a Jamaican reggae and dancehall recording artist, songwriter, record producer, and entrepreneur.
