Vybz Kartel's $1.35 Million Performance Fee Sparks Backlash
NEW YORK, NY — The fallout from Vybz Kartel’s reported US$1.35 million concert fee in Trinidad has ignited fierce debate across the Caribbean and diaspora communities, following the “World Boss’" failure to perform at the Caribbean Music Festival last weekend.
Bobby Clarke - CEO of Irie Jam RadioBobby Clarke, CEO and co-founder of Irie Jam Radio, is pushing back against the criticism of high performance fees by Kartel.
Clarke, a respected New York-based promoter and radio station CEO, declared in a recent interview with FACEVU.IMAGES, “Vybz Kartel should get more money. Period!”
Citing industry metrics, Clarke emphasized that Kartel's earning potential rivals and, in some cases, exceeds major international acts. He pointed to two back-to-back sold-out performances at Brooklyn’s Barclays Center, an arena boasting over 17,000 seats. According to ticket reseller Vivid Seats, Kartel’s average ticket price hovered around US$882, with premium seats reaching up to US$2,000.
“If Kartel is making promoters $20 to $22 million a night,” said Clarke, “then $1.3 million for him is not enough. He’s doing the numbers U.S. superstars are doing.”
The backlash in Trinidad has prompted investigations by government authorities into the source of the foreign exchange funds used to secure the hefty fee—an especially sensitive issue given the island’s current currency restrictions.
Meanwhile, Kartel's reported performance fee is also under scrutiny in St. Kitts, where he’s slated to headline the St. Kitts Music Festival on June 27 alongside R&B superstar Jennifer Hudson, Kes The Band, Shenseea, Barrington Levy, Romain Virgo, Chris Martin and others. Reports indicate Kartel, dancehall’s first “Million Dollar DJ,” is being paid EC$4 million (US$1.5 million)—a figure that has triggered public outrage and demands for greater transparency amid economic challenges on the island.
Clarke acknowledges the public concern but insists that artist fees should remain market-driven, and reflective of audience demand and ticket sales. However, he also issued a strong appeal to Kartel and his management to recognize the contributions of grassroots promoters.
“There should be a double standard,” Clarke stated. “Those of us in the diaspora who’ve been with you from day one should get a break. Local promoters in New York, Atlanta, and Florida helped build this industry—we deserve access.”
Tony 'ER Guru' Turner, of FACEVU.IMAGES, the influential Instagram platform which conducted the viral interview with Clarke emphasized that the current debate about Kartel's million dollar fee is exposing broader and timely issues related to performance fees—especially for Caribbean acts.
“The controversy has raised much broader questions about artist compensation—particularly in the Caribbean and even here in North America,” Turner explained.
The FACEVU.IMAGES executive shared that the interview with Clarke was reposted by Kartel to his 3.5 million Instagram followers and has garnered over 306 million views.
Despite the controversy, Kartel’s momentum continues. On July 18, he will be crowned “Dancehall King” at Reggae Sumfest in Montego Bay—a title last bestowed on Beenie Man in 2009. The coronation cements Kartel's global dominance and growing recognition.
With upcoming shows planned in France and the UK, promoters and fans alike are watching closely to see whether the Trinidad incident will stunt Kartel’s ascent—or further validate his worth.
