Dancehall star Popcaan has moved to address and clarify the dispute between himself and Cordell “Skatta” Burrell, which unfolded during his set on Vybz Kartel’s Freedom Street New Year’s Eve Concert at the Nationals Stadium on Wednesday.

A statement released by his team on Thursday said;

“Unruly Entertainment and its founder, international dancehall superstar Popcaan, wish to address recent events surrounding the Freedom Street concert and clarify misunderstandings for the benefit of our fans, industry stakeholders, and Brand Jamaica”

“First and foremost, 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.”

The Statement also highlighted a few “operational challenges and miscommunications at the venue “that created “unnecessary obstacles”

“Popcaan and the Unruly team approached this event with the utmost professionalism and respect, but certain operational challenges and miscommunications at the venue created unnecessary obstacles. Popcaan initially requested to use his band for the performance, which Kartel graciously approved. “

“However, as the event approached, efforts to rehearse with the band were dismissed by Skatta Burrell. It was later communicated to our team that the use of the band was discouraged as it might “reflect poorly” on the event. “

The release also underlined Popcaan’s commitment to delivering a top-notch performance for his fans “despite the challenges”.

“Upon arrival at the venue, however, access issues caused significant delays. At the main gate, Unruly team members were stopped, even when accompanying artist guests and VIPs were wearing their armbands.

The statement continued. “This resulted in a delay of a few hours, leaving Popcaan and his team outside the venue until after midnight. Efforts to resolve the matter were hindered by mismanagement, with inconsistent instructions from gate personnel.”

“I was standing with Rolexx when he radioed Skatta to say he was at the gate with me,” Popcaan explained. “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.”

“Throughout this ordeal, both Popcaan and Chronic Law maintained composure and remained focused on delivering for their fans. The release said, adding that “It is important to note that Skatta Burrell’s prior interactions with Unruly Entertainment, including past professional disagreements, appear to have contributed to ongoing tension. “

“Popcaan has consistently declined invitations to perform at Sumfest due to concerns about the lack of respect shown to Jamaican artists,” the release noted, adding, “particularly regarding their creative input and accommodations.

The team categorically stated that “no member of our team attempted to enter the venue with any firearm.”

“The safety and security of all patrons remain a top priority for us, and we operate with the highest standards of professionalism.”

It also noted that the “We Cyaa Done” hitmaker chose to move forward despite alleged attempts at escalating the situation.

“While Skatta Burrell allegedly attempted to escalate tensions during and after the event, Unruly Entertainment and Popcaan chose to move forward. “

As Popcaan stated, “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 remains committed to providing high-quality music, performances, and experiences for fans worldwide. We encourage all parties to create an environment of mutual respect and collaboration that uplifts Jamaican music and its global impact