Vybz Kartel to Headline Drake’s OVO Birthday Sessions in Toronto

When global hip hop star Drake announced that Jamaican dancehall icon Vybz Kartel will headline his OVO Birthday Sessions in Toronto on October 26–27, the news instantly set social media on fire. For many fans, this is a landmark moment in modern dancehall. Kartel will finally perform in Toronto, backed by one of his biggest supporters.

Vybz Kartel to Headline OVO: A Major Toronto Reveal

Earlier this year, Kartel’s official website listed Toronto shows for October 1 and 2. Those dates disappeared without explanation, sparking fan speculation. Drake cleared up the mystery when he personally confirmed Kartel’s appearance on Instagram. The announcement came right after Kartel ended the European leg of his “$ome $pecial $hows 4 UK/EU” tour.

Before heading to Canada, he will take the stage at the World Creole Music Festival in Dominica on October 25.

 Toronto Prepares for Vybz Kartel to Headline OVO Birthday Sessions

The concerts will happen at Scotiabank Arena, and fans expect special guests to join Kartel on stage. Drake has a history of surprise appearances at his shows, so expectations are high. The mix of dancehall fire and OVO production promises an unforgettable experience.

Drake has long credited Kartel for shaping his sound. He often points to Kartel’s rhythms, patois-heavy lyrics, and swagger as key influences on his own music. By placing Kartel at the center of his birthday celebrations, Drake delivers a moment that many fans have dreamed of for years.

Vybz Kartel’s Triumphant Return to the Global Music Stage

Kartel’s return to major stages has been nothing short of explosive. In July 2024, the court overturned his murder conviction due to juror misconduct, ending 13 years behind bars. Within hours of his release, he dropped “First Week Out.” He followed with the “Party With Me” EP, which earned his first Grammy nomination in the Best Reggae Album category.

In January 2025, he celebrated the 10th anniversary of “Viking (Vybz Is King)” with a deluxe edition. It included seven new songs recorded after his release. That project, along with other recent releases, pushed Kartel back onto the Billboard Reggae Albums chart and reasserted his global pull.

A Celebration Decades in the Making

Toronto’s Caribbean community, especially Jamaicans, views this show as a major cultural moment. Ticket demand is already soaring. Fans are eager to witness Kartel and Drake share a stage in one of the world’s most Caribbean cities.

Kartel’s appearance at OVO isn’t just another tour stop. It’s a statement about dancehall’s global influence and a celebration of one of the genre’s most enduring voices.