Dancehall icon Vybz Kartel, whose real name is Adidja Palmer, has shared that he is no longer residing in Jamaica. Instead, the celebrated artiste has now made Florida, USA, his new home.
This revelation came during a rare interview on The Breakfast Club, hosted by Charlamagne Tha God and DJ Envy. The episode aired Friday morning while Kartel made a brief stop in New York.
When asked whether he still considers Jamaica a comfortable place to live, Kartel answered directly:
“Of course not,” he said, adding shortly after, “I live in the United States, in Florida.”
During the conversation, the artiste was questioned about what influenced his decision to leave Jamaica. Without going into detail, he made it clear that it wasn’t due to pressure from the government or people, simply replying: “No.”
Reflecting on his personal journey, Kartel shared,
“I spent 13 years in prison. Like seriously, that is not a joke. I need to go out now and I am working.”
He went on to say that Florida serves him well due to its location and accessibility:
“It’s a hub—you can go to New York, England, Los Angeles… it’s a nice place in terms of geography where one can just move.”
Kartel also stated that he has no plans to return to areas in Jamaica he once knew, emphasizing a desire to stay focused and avoid negativity.
“I’m just staying out of trouble. I don’t want to be in anything negative ever again, which is why I’m staying away from Jamaica.”
Vybz Kartel was released on July 31, 2024, after serving 13 years in prison. His conviction in connection with the death of Clive ‘Lizard’ Williams was overturned by the UK Privy Council due to jury misconduct—a decision that was later upheld by Jamaica’s Court of Appeal.
