‘Circumstances beyond our control’ - BZR WKND Ja’s marquee concert postponed to December 20

BZR WKND (Bizarre Weekend) Jamaica’s marquee concert, which was to feature international rap star Cardi B as its headline act, has been postponed from October 18 to December 20.

The organisers announced the change in a statement posted on Tuesday, citing circumstances beyond their control.

The announcement follows a Billboard report last Thursday indicating that Cardi B would no longer be performing at the event, which was scheduled to take place at the National Stadium in St Andrew.

In a video posted online following news of her withdrawal, the Grammy-winning artiste apologised to her Jamaican fans, saying she had tried her best to make the appearance happen but had to walk away because outstanding issues remained unresolved.

“First and first, I want to really, really apologise to Jamaica and to my Jamaican fans,” she said.

Cardi B said she had waited for arrangements to be finalised but could not disclose further details because of contractual restrictions. She also dismissed suggestions that poor ticket sales had prompted her decision, claiming that more than 18,000 tickets had been sold.

In its Tuesday statement, BZR WKND extended condolences to the artiste and her family following the death of her grandfather.

“First and foremost, we extend our heartfelt condolences to Cardi B and her family on the passing of their loved one. Our thoughts, prayers, and deepest sympathies are with Cardi during this difficult time,” the organisers said.

Cardi B, whose real name is Belcalis Marlenis Almánzar, recently marked her birthday in the Dominican Republic, where she visited family.

The promoters said they had approached the event with professionalism and had fulfilled their financial obligations and contractual commitments.

“While circumstances beyond our control have led to this postponement, our dedication to producing a world-class event in Jamaica remains unchanged,” the statement said.

They acknowledged the disappointment and inconvenience the postponement could cause for patrons who had purchased tickets, arranged travel, and booked accommodation, apologising for the disruption.

The organisers added that the additional time would be used to develop a bigger production, promising an expanded entertainment experience for patrons.

“We are using this additional time to build an even bigger, star-studded experience worthy of our fans and the Caribbean stage,” they said.

They also stressed that the festival’s vision extended beyond the participation of a single artiste.

“One thing is certain: We will not let you down. A show will happen!” the statement said. “Our vision has always been bigger than one artiste.”

All previously purchased tickets will remain valid for the rescheduled marquee concert, and patrons who are unable to attend on the new date or prefer a refund may submit requests by email.

The organisers said a press conference would be held later this week to address questions and provide further details about the rescheduled event.

The October 18 performance would have marked Cardi B’s first major performance in Jamaica. Despite the cancellation, the rapper expressed hope that she would eventually get the opportunity to perform on the island, where she said she has family.

“I really, really, really wish that I could come and perform in Jamaica one day, because I really love you guys,” she said. “I have amazing families out there, and I’m sorry, and I love y’all.”

Organisers did not provide clarity on the BZR WKND Welcome Party, Tidal Rave Beach Party: WYFL Edition and BZR WKND Farewell Celebration, the remaining events in the series.

entertainment@gleanerjm.com