‘I will never bleach again’, says Vybz Kartel

Dancehall legend Vybz Kartel has opened up about his past decision to bleach his skin, revealing it was linked to struggles with self-love.

Speaking with Ebro Darden on Hot97, Kartel admitted that although he once claimed he bleached to highlight his tattoos, in hindsight, it was rooted in deeper personal issues. “As a Black man, sometimes we face those battles,” he said, firmly stating he would never bleach again.

The incarcerated artist also disclosed he's cut back on alcohol and smoking, calling them coping mechanisms during his 13 years in prison.

Looking ahead, Kartel expressed excitement about marrying his fiancée, Sidem Öztürk, and starting a family. “I want some Turkish children,” he said, reflecting a new chapter focused on healing, love, and growth.