Jamaican dancehall artist Busy Signal has issued an emotional statement addressing his Canadian fans and expressing frustration after his visa application was denied by the Canadian High Commission. The Watch Out For This artist, known for his electrifying performances spanning two decades, took to social media to share his disappointment and call for justice.
“My dear Canadian Fans,” Busy Signal began, “I was hoping this would be a surprise announcement that you are finally going to get to see me in concert. However, for some reason I ‘BUSY SIGNAL’ risks running off with no intention of leaving smh 🤦🏾♂️, as according to the agents at the Canadian High Commission.”
The artist clarified that his visa application was denied because Canadian authorities believed he would not leave the country after his visit. He strongly refuted this claim, stating:
“As a globally recognized Jamaican artist with an impeccable business track record, no current police record of any sort from any country, with active visas from the U.K., the U.S.A. and Europe, I am calling on my country’s authorities for support in addressing the injustice, prejudice, and racist response I received when the Canadian High Commission/Embassy denied my visa application, citing that I would not leave Canada.”
Busy Signal further addressed confusion in the comments of his post, explaining his standard procedure for international engagements:
“Just to clear up a misunderstanding I see in the comments. So I’ve always applied for visiting first, appear in the country to meet with possible business partners before planning a tour or concert then apply for a work visa.”
He emphasized that this application was only the first step, assuring fans that his intentions were professional and above board:
“So no, I did not give the impression I planned to work on a visiting [visa]. Over 20 years in the music business traveling. So I, nor my team would do something so stupid.”
The artist called on Jamaican authorities to step in, describing the visa denial as an act of “injustice, prejudice, and racism.” Despite holding active visas from major global regions, including the U.K., U.S.A., and Europe, he faced barriers to entering Canada for what he described as legitimate business purposes.
Busy Signal has over 700 million Spotify streams.
