ST JAMES, Jamaica – Die-hard Vybz Kartel fans have already turned up in droves at the Catherine Hall Entertainment Complex in Montego Bay, hoping to be front and centre to witness the highly anticipated ‘official’ crowning of the new ‘King of Dancehall’.

Traffic piled up for miles along the Mammee Bay toll route as hundreds of patrons scurried to make it to the second city in time to witness the historic moment. Portmore residents, including those from Kartel’s hometown of Waterford, also known as the ‘Gaza’, are already on the ground as they marked the moment one not to be missed.

“I’m from Portmore, Gaza city and you don’t even have to ask who I’m here to see,” said Samantha.

“I’m here from early because I don’t want to miss a minute of the crowning of the King of the Dancehall. One Gaza, one Worl’ Boss. Mi love him song with Spice and so if Spice coulda come tonight that would be nice.”

Natalie says Sumfest’s Festival Night 1 will be a good night for dancehall.

Her friend Natalie, also proclaiming Kartel the undisputed King, and said his coronation was a must-attend.

“I’m here for Vybz Kartel, the one and only King. This couldn’t miss me,” she said. “But I also love Masicka so I’m looking forward to his performance as well. This will be a good night for dancehall music and the culture.”

Anticipation surrounding Vybz Kartel’s performance has been high with excitement reaching a peak when the crowning was announced late last month.

The entertainer, who has not graced the Reggae Sumfest stage since 2011, will officially be crowned King of the Dancehall in a grand coronation in front of what is expected to be a sold-out crowd. The entertainer is also expected to turn in a spectacular performance as he makes his first appearance on a stage in Jamaica since his Freedom Street concert in December.