Popcaan secures U.S. visa, opening door to American performances

Jamaican dancehall star Popcaan has secured a U.S. visa, potentially opening the door to performances in a major market where several of the genre’s leading artists have regained access after years of travel restrictions.

The development, announced Sunday, Oct. 11, marks a significant milestone for Andrae “Popcaan” Sutherland, who has built an international following through his music and collaborations with artists such as Canadian rapper Drake.

Popcaan’s sister, Annalecia “Unruly Squid” Sutherland, welcomed the development, saying the artist and his team were looking forward to new opportunities.

“We’re so happy for Pops. This is a huge moment in his career, and we’re excited about the doors this will open for him and the team,” she said.

“He’s putting in the work for the album, which will be dropping soon, and there’s so much more to come. The fans can stay tuned because we’re just getting started!”

No U.S. performance dates or tour plans were announced alongside the visa news.

Popcaan’s approval comes as several prominent Jamaican reggae and dancehall artists have regained U.S. visa access in recent years, creating renewed opportunities to perform for American audiences.

In May 2024, Grammy-winning artist Buju Banton returned to the United States after receiving a visa. Banton had been deported to Jamaica in December 2018 following his release from prison, where he served time on drug convictions.

Sizzla Kalonji also had his U.S. visa and work permit reinstated in 2024, allowing him to resume performances in the country.

Beenie Man regained his U.S. visa in late December 2024, following years of uncertainty over his ability to travel to the country. His visa had previously been restored in 2011 before being rescinded in 2015.

In January 2025, dancehall star Vybz Kartel had his visa reinstated, ending a period of more than 20 years without access to the American market. He went on to perform at Brooklyn’s Barclays Center in April 2025, marking a major return to the U.S. stage.

Bounty Killer followed in March 2025, returning to the United States for the first time in 15 years. The artist, whose given name is Rodney Price, had his visa revoked in March 2010.

The reinstatements have renewed discussion about dancehall’s commercial potential in the United States, where live performances offer Jamaican artists opportunities to reach established fan bases and generate touring revenue.

For Popcaan, the visa approval offers the prospect of reconnecting with American fans in person. His next steps, including any U.S. tour or performance announcements, have yet to be confirmed.