In an ongoing revival of the feud with his longtime rival Shatta Wale, Stonebwoy has made some eyebrow-raising allegations concerning Shatta Wale’s upcoming performance at Vybz Kartel’s highly anticipated concert in Jamaica.
When news broke that Shatta Wale had been billed to perform at the concert of one of Jamaica’s top international artistes, Vybz Kartel, fans were ecstatic, considering it a major accomplishment for the Ghanaian dancehall musician.
The announcement stirred up huge excitement among Shatta’s supporters, who saw it as a monumental achievement for him.
Some fans of Shatta Wale took the opportunity to mock Stonebwoy, claiming that Shatta’s inclusion in the Vybz Kartel concert was proof that he is now the ‘go-to’ artiste for high-profile global opportunities.
They quickly drew comparisons with Stonebwoy, emphasising Shatta Wale’s recent successes, including his feature on Beyoncé’s project, as evidence that he was surpassing his rival in international recognition.
But Stonebwoy, who is also known as the ‘face of reggae and dancehall’ in Ghana, has now spoken out to defend his position and to address what he sees as a tendency to overlook his own achievements in favour of celebrating Shatta Wale’s latest opportunity.
In an interview with Angel FM’s Ike De Unpredictable, Stonebwoy responded to the comparisons, stating his long history of collaborating with Jamaican artistes and bringing them to Ghana for performances.
He pointed out that he has been instrumental in fostering connections between Ghanaian and Jamaican artistes, including bringing major dancehall acts like Spice to Ghana.
“Can he fly someone home? What he is now going to do in Jamaica, I’ve done it several times. It was in 2018 that I performed at Reggae Sumfest in Jamaica. Reggae Sumfest is the biggest reggae festival, alongside Rebel Salute. Go and check and see. Our big brother Samini even went to perform at the Champions in Action festival. I don’t know how many of you remember this,” Stonebwoy fumed.
He added, “Just recently, I brought a whole dancehall queen, Spice, to Ghana.”
The host then pointed out, “People say you’ve been bringing Jamaican acts to Ghana, but in Shatta Wale’s case, he has been prestigiously flown to Jamaica for this show. Have you heard?”
Stonebwoy, visibly irritated, responded, “Is it Jamaica that I haven’t been to before? I’ve gone past that stage. Now, I’m the one bringing them home. Check and see which one is more expensive.”
Stonebwoy went on to downplay Shatta Wale’s role in the upcoming Vybz Kartel concert, claiming that Shatta Wale’s involvement is just minimal. He described Shatta as a “curtain raiser” for the event.
“This is just his second time going to Jamaica, and even at that, he’s just going to raise the curtains at Vybz Kartel’s show,” Stonebwoy said.
The host, clearly taken aback, asked, “Did you say he’s going to raise the curtains?”
Stonebwoy replied, “Ghanaians hate the truth so much. I have so much to say.”
Stonebwoy’s recent statements about Shatta Wale have seemingly revived their long-standing rivalry and fueled intense online debates between their fans.
About Vybz Kartel’s ‘Freedom Concert’ and Shatta Wale’s role
Shatta Wale has been confirmed as the sole Ghanaian performer at the highly anticipated Freedom Street concert, headlined by Jamaican dancehall legend Vybz Kartel.
Scheduled for December 31, 2024, at the National Stadium in Kingston, Jamaica, the event will mark Vybz Kartel’s first live performance in over 14 years, following his recent release from prison.
The concert will also feature international stars such as Skillibeng, Busta Rhymes, Popcaan, and Spice.