One thing about Jamaicans is that they know how to entertain a crowd and how to stir up the media. One of the current feuds on the island, which you can’t go around, is the one between Beenie Man and Vybz Kartel. A somewhat silly debate by two grown-ups over who is dancehall’s true king continues, with Beenie and Kartel once again at the center of the conversation. Beenie Man recently shared a throwback clip where Kartel acknowledges him as the King of Dancehall, fueling fan discussions. In response, Kartel dropped a new track asserting his dominance in the genre. But despite the buzz, Kartel made it clear—this isn’t a lyrical war. He’s not clashing Beenie, just staking his claim. While the titles and rankings will always be up for debate, one thing is certain: both artists have left an undeniable mark on dancehall’s legacy.
And.. on top of this, Annotto Bay, St. Mary-born Don Mafia must have thought, one man’s misfortune is another man’s opportunity… In his new song “Crown”, he addresses the many battles in Jamaica’s music business.; “This song is a vibrant exploration of the ongoing rivalry within the dancehall arena, where the quest for legitimacy and recognition as the king of dancehall takes center stage. With infectious rhythms and clever wordplay, the song narrates the stories of various contenders vying for the crown, each claiming their place in the illustrious hierarchy of the genre. Through sharp lyrics and a captivating beat, Don Mafia artfully emulates and playfully mocks those who assert their dominance, while also shedding light on the complexities of identity and ambition in the dancehall scene. This track not only entertains but also sparks a dialogue about legacy, artistry, and the true essence of being a king in the ever-evolving world of dancehall music.“.
“Crown” is taken from Don Mafia’s new “Size UP” EP, which was released on January 31, 2025.