In a recent feature with GQ, renowned dancehall artist Adidja ‘Vybz Kartel’ Palmer disclosed the ten items he deems indispensable. Foremost among them is his Bible, underscoring a profound spiritual transformation following his release from prison in the summer of 2024. Kartel had spent 13 years incarcerated before being acquitted by the Court of Appeal.
During the interview, Kartel highlighted Psalm 91 as a particularly significant passage, reciting:
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“He that dwelleth in the secret place of the most High shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty. I will say of the Lord, He is my refuge and my fortress: my God; in him will I trust.”
Reflecting on his time in prison, Kartel shared,
“Being incarcerated, I spoke out to God. I cried for help. And He replied, and I made a promise that if you get me out, I’ll never stop calling your name. Never stop praising your name. Never stop being as positive as I can. And I’m keeping that promise to this day, man. For me, God is everything. God is the greatest man.”
Beyond his spiritual anchor, Kartel’s list of essentials reveals a penchant for luxury and personal significance. He expressed admiration for Louis Vuitton, listing three items from the brand: the ‘Imagination’ cologne, a cardholder, and the Avenue Slingbag. Regarding his fragrance choice, he quipped,
“I have my special mix that I don’t talk about. It’s a secret recipe, sort of like the KFC one.”
Sentimentality also plays a role in his daily accessories. Kartel wears two watches: a Rose Gold Presidential Rolex and a bust-down Rolex gifted by fellow dancehall artist Popcaan, who began his career with Kartel’s Portmore Empire. He humorously noted,
“Maybe I’m trying to make up for lost time.”
In the digital realm, Kartel emphasized the importance of his cellphones, stating,
“I got two phones like Kevin Gates. Definitely Instagram and Tik Tok. You can mingle, talk to the fans, know what’s new, what’s trending. We use Instagram to promote our stuff and TikTok. Yeah, I’m on YouTube too. I like [that]. It’s very demure, is what I’m saying. It’s very cutesy in a way. It’s very mindful.”
Other essentials include his manager, TJ from TJ Records, Bvlgari sunglasses, water, and sweets like Sour Patch Kids or Haribo Goldbears.
Kartel’s selections offer a window into his multifaceted identity, blending deep spirituality with a flair for luxury and a connection to his musical roots.