Influenced by their forefathers, who have left a lasting impact on the current generation of dancehall, Likkle Vybz, Likkle Addi, and Skye Diamond are all seeking their breakthrough. a promising glimpse of the next generation
L-R: Likkle Vybz, Likkle Addi & Skye Diamond
Vybz Kartel and Mavado have both been most prominent figures in the dancehall music scene since the mid-2000s, with their influence stretching from the turn of the 21st century well into the subsequent decade. They've transcended into iconic status among their devoted fan base, leaving an indelible mark on generations of artists profoundly shaped by their groundbreaking contributions.
Although their careers seemed intertwined, a compelling rivalry marked their paths, causing significant divisions not just in music.
Vybz Kartel, a fearless and eloquent lyricist, elevated his peers to distant contenders while pursuing a mission of distinctiveness. Mavado, on the other hand, emerged as a forceful singjay, singing with unwavering passion, even when delving into more controversial subject matter.
Intriguingly, Vybz Kartel has been incarcerated since 2011, and Mavado has faced various circumstances that led him to immigrate to the United States. What's truly fascinating, however, is exploring the next generation of these musical titans, particularly their children.
It's a common expectation for kids to follow in their famous parents' footsteps, but in reality, most seek to carve out their own path, emphasizing their individuality and natural inclinations, which may differ markedly from their family's.
Vybz Kartel's sons, Likkle Vybz and Likkle Addi, and Mavado's daughter, Skye Diamond, have chosen to follow in their fathers' footsteps while maintaining their unique artistic identities.
Likkle Addi and Likkle Vybz operate under their own record label and syndicate known as UTG (UpTown Gaza). They've released joint projects, such as 'Skinny Jeans' and their 13-track album 'Team Different', While they have collaborated on many songs, they are still considered separate artists.
Likkle Vybz, whose real name is Adidjah Palmer, is the older of the two at 23 years old. He boasts an impressive collection of hit songs, including "Fresh Pair" with 438k views, "Glory" with 641k views, and "Daily" with a remarkable 2.3 million views.
Meanwhile, Likkle Addi, whose given name is Akheel Raheim Palmer and is 20 years old, has also achieved chart-topping success with songs like "Dollar Sign," which has accumulated 3.2 million views on YouTube, "Balmain" with 295k views, and "Style" with 793k views.
Both artists have received substantial support from their father, Vybz Kartel. They have collaborated with him on songs such as "Lemonade," "Airforce1," and many others. Their most recent collaboration, "Popular," has garnered 1.5 million views on YouTube.
Daniela Brooks, who goes by the stage name Skye Diamond, is the daughter of the dancehall legend Mavado and is making her mark as a rising musician. She attended Meadow Brook High School and initially pursued a career in practical nursing but is now following her dream to become a musician and showcase her talents worldwide. Diamond is determined not to rely on her father's fame, crafting her own lyrics and building her fan following from the ground up.
In a 2021 interview with Winford Williams on Onstage, she revealed that her dad remains her mentor, and she seeks his advice, even though she prefers to operate independently. Her father was initially hesitant about her pursuing a music career due to the pressures and expectations of being a public figure, but Diamond insists that music is an undeniable calling, especially given her upbringing in a musical environment.
Her most popular song, "Life Story," has garnered over 20,000 views on YouTube, and she has other notable tracks like "Millions," "Dem Nuh Real," "Gun Down," and "Ah Mi Style."
While Nhance, the son of former Gaza Empire member Queen Sheba, he's already making impressive strides in the dancehall space, his fellow artistes have not yet declared as one who has broken through in the industry, but they certainly deserves attention as part of the next generation of Gaza and Gully.
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