Kingston, Jamaica — Unruly Entertainment, headed by dancehall icon Popcaan, has released a new statement addressing the controversy surrounding the Freedom Street concert and the involvement of event promoter Skatta Burrell.
The statement began by honoring Vybz Kartel’s landmark performance, promoted by Downsound Entertainment. “We extend our respect to Vybz Kartel for delivering an exceptional performance, especially after 13 years of incarceration. Kartel’s appearance marked a historic moment for the dancehall community, and we commend his resilience and outstanding contribution to the event.”
However, Unruly Entertainment described a series of operational missteps that marred their experience. Popcaan shared that his request to use his own band, which had been approved by Kartel, was later denied. “It was later communicated to our team that the use of the band was discouraged as it might ‘reflect poorly’ on the event,” the statement said.
On Wednesday, Skatta Burrell of Downsound Entertainment responded with a video statement, explaining that Popcaan’s onstage outburst stemmed from a private conflict between the two. Burrell specifically referenced Popcaan’s public insult, “S*ck You Modda,” as the catalyst for the incident, saying his mother is currently in the hospital and he was deeply offended. “Mad diss me publicly, me drag him under the stage and disrespect him back privately,” he shared on Instagram.
Shorty afternoon Wednesday, that statement Popcaan took to X with his own statement refuting Skatta’s claim that he “Nuh bwoy caa tump unruly nuh wey Ina the world and nuh dead sametime!!! skatta suck yuh muma again!!! Leggo me t shirt!!
Now, he further clarifies that access issues at the venue further compounded the problems. The statement said that Popcaan and his team, despite having armbands, were delayed at the main gate for hours and this started the interaction with Burrell on New Year’s Eve: “I was standing with Rolexx when he radioed Skatta to say he was at the gate with me. Skatta responded, ‘Mi cyaah bodda wid Popcaan and him 100 man,’ not even knowing how many people were actually with me. The reality is it was just my team and Chronic Law’s team.”
Skatta Burrell made a post on Thursday highlighting the strict no weapons policy of the National Stadium, however, Unruly Entertainment maintains that no firearms were involved and emphasized their commitment to professionalism and safety. “The safety and security of all patrons remain a top priority for us, and we operate with the highest standards of professionalism,” the statement read.
The tension between Popcaan and Burrell appears to be longstanding. Popcaan, citing a lack of respect for Jamaican artists, has consistently declined invitations to perform at Reggae Sumfest, the company’s other major reggae event. Despite the difficulties, Popcaan expressed a desire to move forward. “It’s a new year. My team and I don’t have Skatta on our minds or thoughts. We’re focused on continuing to deliver for the fans and elevating dancehall culture.”
Unruly Entertainment concluded by urging mutual respect and collaboration within the music industry, stating their commitment to uplifting Jamaican music and its global impact.
Meanwhile, Vybz Kartel seems to be unmoved by the incidence at his return event, he posted highlights of Popcaan and Jah Vinci onstage with the caption: “ME N MI UNRULY PICKNEY DEM #STARMOMEEEENT!!!!
FREEDOM STREET 2024 WAS A SUCCESS!!! GIVE THANKS TO #GAZANATION AND EACH AND EVERY ARTISTE THAT PERFORMED!!!! HAPPY NEW YEAR EVERYONE #2025#GODISTHEGREATEST”
