OLDIES SUNDAY: Vibes Cartel – Drive By (1999)

It’s the first “Oldies Sunday” entry of 2024! We hope to put you on to many more classic tunes and underrated tunes from back in the day. Today, we celebrate the birthday of a Dancehall legend named Vybz Kartel. But before he became the Icon we know today, he was known as an upcoming Artist named Addi Banton, who along with Mr. Lee and Escobar, were a part of group in the mid-1990s called, Vibes Cartel. We highlight their track, “Drive By“.

Produced by Computer Paul on the “Scorpion Riddim“, this was released through Boot Camp Records in 1999. The track features melodies, some badman lyrics, and a different kind of energy as the group deejays about not taking disrespect from anyone, being superior to anyone out, and emphasizing that they will retaliate when threats come their way. “Drive By” quickly became a known track, and it received a lot of airplay in Jamaica (Editor’s note: I remember hearing about “Vibes Cartel” on FAME FM (big up Alrick & Boyd), and I believe this was the track that was making its rounds.). The group also made its name be known throughout Jamaica through a series of live performances, bringing lyrics and a striking presence that stood out every time.

Since the release of “Drive By”, the Vibes Cartel group disbanded soon after. Mr. Lee and Escobar went on to pursue other endeavours, while Addi Banton made his name writing for a few Dancehall Artists including Bounty Killa who took him under his wing, and becoming a solo Artist. Addi kept the Vibes Cartel name, made some modifications, and became the Dancehall Enigma known forever as, Vybz Kartel. Mr. Lee made a few attempts as a solo Artist, going under the name Tsunami 1876. Escobar made musical efforts during and after Vibes Cartel, and even recorded a number of tracks with Vybz throughout the 2000s. While many know of Vybz Kartel who celebrates his 48th birthday today, not many know of Vibes Cartel. Here’s a little bit of History.