ECNETNews, New York, NY, Jan. 30, 2025: As the excitement builds for the 67th Grammy Awards this Sunday, Jamaican dancehall legend Vybz Kartel is poised to celebrate a milestone by releasing the 10th Anniversary Edition of his acclaimed 2015 album, Viking (Vybz Is King). This highly anticipated deluxe version will be available tomorrow, January 31, 2025.
Produced by Adidjahiem Records/TJ Records, this edition honors the original album’s legacy while introducing seven brand-new tracks recorded since Kartel’s release from prison in July 2024. Fans can expect to hear beloved hits such as Unstoppable, Enchanting, Gon’ Get Better (previously sampled by Fifth Harmony), and Dancehall (now renamed Dancehall Cyah Stall).
Kartel’s latest music exemplifies his artistic range, featuring the uplifting anthem God Is The Greatest, the witty track #AmOut, and It A Tape, which draws on his trademark catchphrases. The album also showcases a sultry collaboration with Ishawna titled Porn Flick, the heartfelt Dreams Are Made Of, and the celebratory party anthem STR8 Vybz, named after his new rum brand.
“This album is significant as it marks ten years since Viking impacted the music scene, and it signifies my return to music-making since my release,” Kartel stated, excitedly sharing that he has regained his US visa, allowing him to travel once again. “This is a full-circle moment with my long-time producer TJ Records and my skilled engineers, Ricard ‘RedBoom’ Reid and Dominic ‘Troublemekka’ McDonald.”
TJ Records expressed their enthusiasm, stating, “All new songs were recorded post-release, making it a remarkable experience reuniting in the studio with Kartel finally able to create again. He never fails to impress, and fans can expect a fantastic experience.”
Since his return to the music industry, Kartel has assertively reclaimed his status, releasing numerous singles and two major projects in 2024—First Week Out and Party With Me, the latter earning him a Grammy nomination for Best Reggae Album. The winner will be revealed this Sunday, February 2, 2025, at the Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles.
Viking (Vybz Is King) 10th Anniversary Tracklist:
- God Is The Greatest *
- It A Tape *
- Polite *
- Dreams Are Made Of *
- STR8 Vybz *
- Porn Flick ft. Ishawna *
- Gon’ Get Better
- Enchanting
- Dancehall Cyah Stall
- Unstoppable
- #AmOut *
(*Indicates new tracks).
The album is available for pre-order.
