The conversation surrounding Popcaan’s long-standing U.S. visa issues has gained more attention, with prominent immigration attorney Bridgette Bennett weighing in on the matter. Bennett, who played a crucial role in reinstating the visas of dancehall legends Beenie Man and Bounty Killer among several other prominent entertainers and personalities, recently revealed on Irie FM’s Road to Success that she has attempted to reach out to Popcaan, but the artist has yet to respond. “I know for a fact that the General Rodney Price [Bounty Killer] has sent him my personal cell phone number, and Poppy still hasn’t linked up,” she stated. While acknowledging that she does not have full knowledge of the reasons behind his visa struggles, she expressed curiosity about his case, adding, “From a professional perspective, man, he would be the next amazing client to work with.”
Popcaan’s inability to perform in the U.S. remains one of the most glaring absences in dancehall’s global landscape. With a career spanning over a decade, the Unruly Boss has collaborated with international heavyweights such as Drake, Jamie xx, and Gorillaz, amassing millions of streams worldwide. Yet, the U.S.—one of the biggest markets for reggae and dancehall music—remains out of reach. In 2023, dancehall and reggae music generated nearly U$300 million in U.S. sales, according to the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA), reinforcing the financial significance of access to that market. The recent return of Buju Banton saw a 60% spike in his digital streams, demonstrating the economic and cultural impact of these artists performing stateside. Fans believe Popcaan would see similar success if granted entry.
The artist himself has not been silent on the issue. His 2023 tweet, “Why they let me into everywhere except America?” resonated deeply with his fanbase, sparking the #1stTimeInAmerica campaign on social media. With over 732,000 followers on X (formerly Twitter) and millions more across platforms, his supporters have remained vocal, urging authorities to grant him a visa. Social media advocacy has intensified, especially as other dancehall heavyweights like Beenie Man, Sizzla Kalonji, and Vybz Kartel regain access to the U.S. “Dancehall nice AGAIN ??? but we need Poppy now fi seal up di ting,” one fan commented, echoing the sentiment of many.
While legal and diplomatic obstacles may still be at play, Bennett’s interest in Popcaan’s case has reignited optimism. Whether or not the artist takes up her offer remains to be seen, but one thing is certain—his absence from the U.S. stage is becoming increasingly difficult to ignore.
