Two local artistes will soon have the chance to share the stage with internationally acclaimed Dancehall icon, Vybz Kartel. This opportunity is being made possible through a collaborative initiative between the Government of Guyana and the Jamaican artiste’s management team.

The move follows a recent visit by Vybz Kartel to Guyana, during which he met with President Irfaan Ali and a group of local musicians. As part of his commitment to supporting the growth of the Guyanese music scene, Kartel pledged to feature local talent during his upcoming performance. He also opened the door for collaborations with local artistes.
To ensure a fair selection process, the Government has announced open auditions, from which one male and one female artiste will be chosen based on specific criteria.
On Friday, Minister of Tourism, Industry and Commerce, Hon Oneidge Walrond, along with Hon. Kwame McCoy, Minister within the Office of the Prime Minister responsible for Public Affairs, met with aspiring artistes at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre (ACCC).
Minister McCoy emphasised the Government’s ongoing support for the creative industries, highlighting initiatives such as grants for recording studios. He noted that the music industry has the potential to become a billion-dollar sector and encouraged artistes to refine their craft to appeal to both local and global audiences.
Minister Walrond echoed this sentiment, outlining the Government’s broader vision for developing the local music industry. She emphasised the importance of creating opportunities for international exposure and collaborations, with the ultimate goal of positioning Guyanese artistes as globally recognised talents.
“We are stronger as a collective, and this initiative helps bring us together as creatives and artistes,” Minister Walrond stated.
As part of the selection process, all interested artistes are required to submit samples of their work. A shortlist of ten will be selected for a final audition, from which the top two performers will be chosen.
Vybz Kartel is scheduled to perform in Guyana on May 24.