Dancehall star Popcaan could challenge Vybz Kartel’s historic New York ticket-selling record following his US visa approval, according to broadcaster and entertainment promoter Chin of Irish and Chin. Speaking on Soundchat Radio, Chin predicted that the Unruly boss could sell out three or even four shows in New York, arguing that Popcaan has built an enormous international following despite spending his career without access to the US market. His bold assessment has reignited debate over whether Popcaan’s long-awaited American breakthrough could reshape the hierarchy of dancehall’s biggest concert attractions.
“Popcaan is going to destroy the United States of America as it relates to selling out venues,” Chin declared, expressing confidence in the artiste’s ability to draw major audiences. He described Popcaan as the only living artiste he believes could rival Kartel’s achievements in New York, where the Gaza leader has previously staged three sold-out shows. However, Chin stressed that his argument was not about deciding which artiste is bigger, but recognising Popcaan’s potential to make history in a market he has yet to fully access.
Chin also argued that Popcaan’s appeal extends beyond his connection to Kartel’s Gaza movement. While acknowledging the two artistes’ shared history and overlapping fan base, he pointed to Popcaan’s more recent catalogue and younger audience as possible advantages. Kartel spent almost 13 years incarcerated, a period during which Popcaan continued to develop his career and expand his international reach. Chin suggested that the visa approval could be the final piece in the puzzle for an artiste whose demand has grown without the benefit of regular US performances.
Meanwhile, the promoter offered a strategic warning about a possible appearance by Kartel at Popcaan’s first US concert. Chin believes the two should resist the temptation to share the stage at the event, arguing that Popcaan should establish his own commercial drawing power before they eventually reunite for a major Gaza–Unruly production. “Once you sell that for free, can’t sell again,” he said, suggesting that an eventual reunion could become a separate, highly marketable attraction if the moment is saved for the right occasion. He added that Kartel’s presence backstage would be more appropriate than a surprise performance.
Chin nevertheless believes Popcaan’s success would ultimately reflect positively on Kartel, whom he credited with discovering and mentoring the Unruly leader. With debate also emerging among fans over whether Popcaan’s first major US concert should take place at Barclays Center or a larger venue such as Yankee Stadium, expectations are mounting around what his American debut could deliver. Neither a venue nor a concert date has been confirmed in the discussion, but one question is already dominating the conversation: could Popcaan become the next Dancehall star to set a new benchmark for live performances in New York?
View this post on Instagram
