Vybz Kartel promises Super Bowl-level show for NYE Freedom Street
Published:Sunday | December 29, 2024 | 12:13 AM
Dancehall superstar Vybz Kartel is promising a show worthy of the National Football League (NFL) Super Bowl halftime event for the December 31 Freedom Street.
“It’s giving Madonna energy, it’s giving world-class because it’s a full four-corner almost 360 stage vibe. The lighting, the sound, the lasers, the surprises — it’s going to be like an NFL Super Bowl halftime show 2.0.,” said Kartel, adding that it would make pop star Taylor Swift, who recently wrapped her record-breaking Eras tour, envious.
“It’s an experience you don’t want to miss. It will make Taylor Swift jealous,” he said.
Joe Bogdanovich, chief executive officer of Downsound Entertainment, humorously added: “Who knows? It might even attract her to be here”.
There is much excitement for Freedom Street, the highly anticipated event headlined by Kartel, which celebrates the entertainer’s return to the stage and release from prison after spending 13 years behind bars for a crime for which he was acquitted by the Court of Appeal in July.
KARTEL TO PERFORM AT 10:00 PM
Fans are preparing for what has been touted as an unforgettable experience. The Dancehall Hero entertainer is set to take the stage at the National Stadium at 10 p.m. sharp.
Organisers are promising innovative stage production and a meticulously planned security framework to ensure the safety of all patrons.
With thousands expected to converge on the venue, Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) Gary McKenzie assured the public that every aspect of security and public safety has been carefully planned.
“The organisation of this event has been very detailed and methodical. We want to assure the people of Jamaica that the involvement of the police will ensure safety and security as well as maintain public order,” said McKenzie.
Key measures include thorough searches of patrons, protocols to prevent crowd bundling, and an emphasis on securing the venue perimeter and access routes. “Police will be stationed at the ride-and-park shuttle areas, and routes to the venue will be monitored to ensure safe passage,” McKenzie added.
In terms of traffic management, the police have laid out clear plans. Starting at 5 p.m., Arthur Wint Drive is expected to operate as a one-way route from Tom Redcam Avenue to Statue Road, with Roosevelt Avenue potentially converting into a one-way from Stanton Terrace towards Statue Road. After the event, these routes will be reversed, with police stationed to guide motorists. Additionally, parking will be restricted on Arthur Wint Drive, Roosevelt Avenue, and parts of Mountain View Avenue.
Head of Security Leemour Palmer outlined the advanced private security measures in place, ensuring a smooth and secure experience for all attendees.
“We’re implementing several tiers of private security. For vehicle protection, multiple drones and full camera systems will monitor activity in and around the stadium. These will track all comings and goings to ensure safety,” Palmer explained.
Shuttle services will operate from Heroes Circle for grandstand and bleachers ticket holders; Jamaica College for infield tickets, and the Stadium grounds for centrestage and pod tickets. “These shuttle locations will be well-lit, manned by private security and parking attendants, and monitored by cameras and drones to minimise loss, theft, or damage,” Palmer added.
As for inside the stadium, Kartel promises a wealth of amenities and lux touches and his STR8 Vybz Rum.
“Gates open 4 p.m. It’s a party vibe. You can get a variety of food and beverages - alcoholic and non-alcoholic. Expect the best musical selection, expect the best foods. Expect STR8 Vybz Rum and more,” he said.
He is also promising the traditional trappings of a New Year’s Eve event.
“Dem say time flies when you’re having fun, so this will be the best 10/11 [hours] of your new year’s experience. The experience will feature champagne popping and fireworks. And you know we are Jamaicans, so we haffi have the church watch night energy, so we haffi have the praying to give God thanks to carry us into a new year.”
Last-minute tickets will be available for purchase online at freedomstreetlive.com and two offsite locations — Jamaica College and Wolmer’s Boys’ School — from 3 p.m. to 9 p.m. No tickets will be sold at the gate.
Bogdanovich shared: “We’ve planned every detail to make this an unforgettable experience. Freedom Street is set to redefine live events in Jamaica, and we’re thrilled to bring fans this level of excitement.”