Dancehall artist Popcaan’s Unruly Fest came to an abrupt end at 5:00 am after police invaded the stage and demanded that the deejay bring the event to a close.
The return of Unruly Fest in St. Thomas on December 22, 2023, comes after a three-year break. The festival, known for its sold-out events, features notable guests like Drake and Tory Lanez.
“We give you until 5 o’clock, it’s time to go,” shouted a member of the Jamaica constabulary force as they signal to rising star Jahshii to end his set at around4:55 am.
A defiant Popcaan who was also on stage with a mic in hand then replied, “that’s why St. Thomas cyah better cause inuh fight everything Weh me do, move up.”
Despite previous threats to move the festival from St. Thomas, Popcaan’s decision to bring it back generated excitement on social media with several top acts performing like Sean Paul, Quavo, Tarrus Riley, Protoje, Jesse Royal, Chronic Law and more. The festival’s history includes a memorable 2019 performance with a unique aerial entrance, and Popcaan has credited Vybz Kartel for making it possible
Popcaan, born Andrae Hugh Sutherland, a native of Saint Thomas Parish, Jamaica, is a highly acclaimed Jamaican deejay known for his contribution to the dancehall genre.
In 2008, Popcaan became a part of Vybz Kartel’s Gaza Music Empire. His breakthrough on the international stage came in 2010 with the release of “Clarks,” a collaborative track with Kartel that paid homage to the popular shoe brand.
The year 2013 marked a significant milestone for Popcaan as he signed with Mixpak Records and unveiled his debut studio album, “Where We Come From.” Later in 2016, he inked a deal with OVO Sound, Canadian rapper Drake’s record label, and Warner Records. Notable among Popcaan’s international hits are tracks like “Only Man She Want,” “Everything Nice,” “Ova Dweet,” “El Chapo,” and “Family.” In 2018, he made his acting debut in the film “The Intent 2: The Come Up.”
Popcaan’s extensive collaboration roster includes renowned artists such as Drake, Jamie xx, Pusha T, Giggs, Matoma, Wale, Gorillaz, and Davido. His second album with Mixpak, titled “Forever,” was released on 20 July 2018, further solidifying his position in the global music scene.
He has sold over one million albums and has over 1.5 billion streams on Spotify. IN 2023 he was the second highest streamed dancehall artist globally.
