Controversy sells but not all the time just ask Alkaline and Vybz Kartel.
Both deejays are embroiled in a music video controversy with Jamaican law enforcement officials at the highest levels. But that controversy didn’t equate into views for their music videos. Cops became interested in the two deejays when they released music videos toting guns with police cars and armored truck. Alkaline was even interviewed by cops and released. Kartel collaborator Masicka also spoke with cops.
Somehow the controversy surrounding the videos “After All” and “InfraRed” didn’t put more money in their pockets. At the time of the controversy, “After All” music video had around 1.5 million views on YouTube and three weeks later it gained roughly another 300,000 views. In comparison, the “Loodi” music video received around 1.5 million views during the few weeks of its controversy. Masicka and Vybz Kartel’s music video “InfraRed” even performed worst post the controversy. Before cops launched their investigation, the video received around 400,000 views on YouTube and three weeks later it only gained an additional 150,000 views. Perhaps this is a sign that dancehall fans are less interested in crime-filled drama themed music videos.
YouTube pays artists US$1,000 for every million views their videos get on the video sharing platform. This means that both Alkaline and Vybz Kartel didn’t profit much from the controversy.
