Dancehall artist Vanessa Bling, formerly known as Gaza Slim, is refocusing her career on independent projects and creative control as she moves past the legal controversies that defined her early rise. According to an exclusive interview with Boomshots, the singer is prioritizing personal growth, new musical releases, and the development of her own studio space, distancing herself from the tumultuous era of the Portmore Empire.
The Evolution of Vanessa Bling
Vanessa Bling first gained prominence as a protégé of Vybz Kartel within the Portmore Empire, contributing to dancehall staples like “Clarks.” Her career trajectory shifted significantly in 2011 following the arrest of Vybz Kartel on murder charges. Vanessa Bling faced her own legal battle, involving conspiracy charges related to alleged false testimony. She spent over a month in a Jamaican prison and subsequently spent years navigating the legal system. Reflecting on that period, she told Boomshots, “Years of my life that me can’t get back. Me keep my mouth closed, but me never keep my eyes closed.”
Current Career Focus and Future Projects
After performing at the Best of the Best festival in Miami, the artist signaled a transition toward a new chapter. She is currently preparing to release her first album in over a decade. This project follows a series of singles, including “10 Bags” and “Rich Mean Man,” which maintained her presence in the dancehall scene during her transition to an independent artist.
Beyond music, she has secured a partnership with the champagne brand Luc Belaire, frequently appearing in promotional material alongside brand ambassador Rick Ross. She also maintains plans to establish a recording studio in Jamaica, which she intends to operate as a supportive space for female artists.
Navigating the Industry
Vanessa Bling often speaks on the challenges faced by women in the male-dominated dancehall industry. She advises emerging artists to maintain their personal boundaries, specifically addressing instances of professional misconduct. “Anything that you’re doing in life, do it because you want to do it,” she stated. She emphasizes that her current artistic identity is defined by a desire for peace and autonomy, noting, “Nothing or nobody will ever ever steal this joy that I have.”
Relationship with the Portmore Empire Legacy
Following the release of Vybz Kartel from prison in 2024, public interest in the former Portmore Empire members has intensified. While fans have expressed excitement when Kartel performs their collaborative tracks live, Vanessa Bling has maintained a professional distance. She expressed support for Kartel and his co-defendants upon their release, acknowledging the 13 years they spent away from their families. However, she remains focused on her own path rather than a reunion, stating, “At the moment I’m just focusing on myself… I’m trying to build an empire.”
She hinted at a potential appearance at the 2024 Reggae Sumfest in Jamaica, following a guest appearance in a music video for Mavado. As she looks toward her upcoming album, she continues to emphasize that her focus remains on her own growth rather than the past, asserting that she is no longer the person who gained fame in 2010.
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