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CARNIVAL
During the discussion, Mr Kil- la contrasted the global scale and structure of Trinidad's Carnival with Grenada's traditional Jab Jab cul- ture, which is widely known for its deep spiritual symbolism, resistance themes, and intense folkloric expres- sion rooted in emancipation history.
While some social media users interpreted the remarks as criticism of Trinidad and Tobago's interna- tionally recognized Carnival prod- uct, others defended the artist, argu- ing that he was simply highlighting
Caribbean Times | June 4-17, 2026
Continued from page 19 blending dancehall, crossover sounds, personal reflections, and more introspective themes. The ti- tle references the Jamaican phrase "God & Time," often associated with faith, patience, and destiny. Produced by longtime collaborator
AKING WS the differences between the Carib- bean's various Carnival traditions rather than attacking one culture in favor of another.
The backlash intensified as Trini- dadians rallied to defend what many consider one of the world's premier cultural festivals. At the same time, several Grenadians and regional supporters applauded Mr Killa for openly championing indigenous Ca- ribbean traditions that they believe have sometimes been overshadowed by mainstream commercialization. As the online discourse escalated, Mr Killa later issued a public clarifi- cation via social media, insisting that TJ Records alongside Kartel, the al- bum reunites the team behind Vi- king (Vybz Is King) and King of the Dancehall, the latter of which included Kartel's RIAA Gold-certi- fied hit "Fever."
Kartel, born Adidja Palmer in Portmore, spent 13 years in prison before his conviction was over- turned by the UK Privy Council and Jamaican courts. He was rehis comments were misunderstood and never intended as disrespect to- ward Trinidad and Tobago.
"At no point did I ever say that Trinidad and Tobago Carnival is fake. That is not my word, and not my position," the artist stated. He went on to explain that describing Trinidad Carnival as commercial- ized was not meant negatively, but rather as recognition of the festival's global expansion and massive infrastructure.
"It is one of the most powerful cultural movements in the world, with global reach, major investment, and world-class production," he leased on July 31, 2024, and re- turned to performing later that year at Kingston's National Stadi- um before a crowd of thousands.
Since his release, Kartel has ex- panded his international profile with collaborations, major media appearances, and back-to-back Grammy nominations. He has also remained one of dancehall's most influential figures, credited with wrote. "Commercialized does not mean fake or inauthentic. It means expanded, structured, and operating at a world level, and that is some- thing to be respected." Mr Killa also emphasized Grenada's unique Car- nival identity, noting that Jab Jab culture carries "a different vibration" rooted in ancestral traditions, raw expression, and freedom.
"That doesn't make one bet- ter than the other it shows the strength and diversity of Caribbean culture," he added. The controversy also reignited wider conversations surrounding the evolution of Carni- val culture and the globalization of helping launch the careers of art- ists including Spice, Popcaan, and Shenseea.
This summer, Kartel is also scheduled to headline Reggae Sumfest on July 18 alongside fellow dancehall artist Mavado, marking a highly anticipated reunion be- tween two of dancehall's biggest rivals from the 2000s era.
soca music - discussions that have frequently been addressed by Trin- idadian soca icon Machel Monta- no over the years.
Montano, often regarded as one of soca's leading ambassadors on the international stage, has consistently spoken about balancing the com- mercialization and global growth of Carnival while preserving its cul- tural meaning and spiritual roots. Though he was not directly involved in the original exchange, his name became part of the online discussion as fans referenced his longstanding views on the future of Caribbean culture and soca music.
Despite the heated exchanges online, many observers believe the debate ultimately highlighted the richness and diversity of Caribbe- an Carnival traditions rather than division. From Trinidad's globally celebrated spectacle to Grenada's deeply rooted Jab Jab expression, the conversation has once again under- scored how passionately Caribbean people protect and celebrate their cultural identities.
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