After the official release of this year’s 2023 Jazz and Arts Festival line up, concerns were brought on by the public after noticing headlining Nigerian artist Rema did not appear on the list of artists who were set to perform at the 2023 festival, as was previously announced.
In a press conference held on Monday, the Minister for Tourism, Hon. Dr. Ernest Hilaire, was questioned about Rema’s absence from the lineup.
“It’s not unusual to have artists who would have confirmed, to no longer be available.” he said.
Minister Hilaire continued that some artists have multiple management teams, and arrangements to have the artist perform at the Festival were made with Rema’s American management team.
“It was announced. The deposit was paid and everything was in order. Then his other management team indicated there’s a booking in Europe that would prevent the artist from being able to perform at both events because of the logistics.” he continued.
“We had the option of deciding to buy out the other commitment, which did not make sense.”
The Minister added that there are many more years of the Festival and he intends on having the artist perform in future.
He believes that there are a number of substantial artists performing at this year’s Jazz and Arts Festival and there may still be a possibility of additions to the lineup.
The Minister stated that the public will remain updated.
Photo: Pitchfork.com
