Drake has gifted Jamaican dancehall legend Vybz Kartel a custom OVO (October’s Very Own) owl chain. This lavish, diamond-encrusted gold piece was presented to Kartel following his back-to-back sold-out performances at Brooklyn’s Barclays Center, marking his first shows in New York in nearly 20 years.
Much-celebrated on social media, the exchange reflects Drake’s respect for Kartel’s music prowess and marks the dancehall legend’s return to the world stage.
This custom OVO chain is no ordinary present—it’s a stunning symbol of respect from one of hip-hop’s most prominent figures to a dancehall legend. With an iconic OVO owl pendant studded with vibrant diamonds, the chain is a symbol of luxury and detailing associated with Drake’s brand. It is not his first time paying respect to an iconic artist in luxury jewelry; in 2020, he commissioned $300,000 in Jesus pieces to pay homage to 2Pac.
Social media clips record Kartel proudly displaying the chain as he quotes from Drake’s 2015 song “Back-to-Back,” a lighthearted acknowledgment of his record for selling out successive concerts. With a congratulatory message from Drake, however, the present demonstrates mutual respect from both artists and transcends materialism.
Vybz Kartel’s latest performances at Barclays Center were a historic landmark. Dubbed the “World Boss” of dancehall, Kartel returned strong after an extended hiatus, selling two successive shows at one of New York City’s top venues. These performances, his first in the city in almost two decades, reaffirmed his long-standing popularity and cultural relevance.
The sold-out concerts reaffirm Kartel’s unbroken star status, abetted by longtime fans who have stood by him since the beginning, including his welcome return to freedom after being imprisoned for so long. Drake’s offering, aptly timed with this victorious comeback, is a tribute to Kartel’s triumph and a welcome return to center stage.
Drake’s respect for Vybz Kartel is no secret. During an interview in 2016, he described Kartel as “one of his greatest inspirations,” attributing his musical development to Kartel. This can be seen in Drake’s consistent use of dancehall and island music throughout his discography, demonstrating a cultural exchange that has made music richer in our times.
The timing of the gift, aligning with Kartel’s triumphant U.S. comeback, amplifies its significance. It also builds on Drake’s earlier support, such as when he wore a “Free Vybz Kartel” shirt in August 2024 to celebrate Kartel’s release. This latest act cements their connection and celebrates Kartel’s enduring impact on music and culture.
Social media posts revealed a mix of opinions: some praised the gesture as a fitting tribute, with one user writing, “This is how you show respect to a legend,” while others were skeptical, commenting, “Still buying friends, I see.” Despite the varied takes, media coverage has largely cast the event positively, emphasizing the mutual admiration between the two artists.
A YouTube video titled “Drake Gifts Vybz Kartel An OVO Chain And Signs In His Label ‘Welcome To Dancehall King” fueled rumors of a potential label deal. However, no credible sources, including HotNewHipHop or official statements, have confirmed this, suggesting the claim is speculative.
Drake’s gift of a custom OVO chain to Vybz Kartel is far more than a celebrity exchange—a powerful symbol of respect, admiration, and cultural unity. Celebrating Kartel’s triumphant return to performing and his profound influence on global music, the gesture has ignited conversations about artistic legacy and the interplay between hip-hop and dancehall.
