Dancehall artiste Laden is today excited about what he dubs a triumphant return to the music scene.

Following a brief stint behind bars, the entertainer — born O’keefe Aarons — has been billed to perform on Night One of the highly anticipated Reggae Sumfest come July 18.

Drawing on similarities between his story and that of Vybz Kartel, Laden says, like the Worl’ Boss, his musical journey continues as he hopes to chart an explosive course to comeback.

“I think 2011 was the last time I was on the Sumfest main stage. The last time Kartel performed at Sumfest… that was the last time I also performed. Now he’s on it, and I’m on it as well,” he told the Jamaica Observer.

“People mention the similarities between our stories sometimes, maybe it nuh go viral, but people talk about it. I don’t really wanna dwell on the past, but we made mistakes and we’re just working to correct those. I’m here and ready for Sumfest. I learnt from my experiences and I am just ready to give music my all again,” he continued.

Laden has been busy in the studio. Over the past few months the deejay has released several tracks, including
Rich, Money and Gyal, Great, and Uno Dos Tres — a song which was given the stamp of approval from Vybz Kartel.

According to Laden, grateful doesn’t adequately sum up how he feels. He shared that after being re-introduced to the scene in 2023 support from his fans and industry players has been overwhelming.

“I have the talent… and I know this, and so support automatically comes. Whenever you’re doing well, you’ll get good response. I have been working and so it’s just time. I appreciate every support that I get because I know my music will take me where I need to be,” he said. “I performed at the Street Dance last year at Reggae Sumfest and I always had my fingers crossed that I would get the call to the big stage again. This year the call came and whenever Sumfest calls it’s always magical.”

With hits such as Time To Shine, Really Like You, and Working Hard, Laden says he’s ready to thrill Reggae Sumfest.

“It’s like a dream come true for me. I don’t take anything on this journey for granted. I spoke about this, worked towards it, and this year Laden will be back on the main stage performing. It’s going to be nothing but greatness,” he shared. “I’m good with everything that’s happening for me, and I understand it. All I have to do is continue putting in the work and that must pay off some day. It can’t go in vain. All you have to do is just keep pushing and have faith along with the talent and the love for music.”