Rising Bouyon act Reo (Dario Sebastien) issued a heartfelt apology to fans this weekend after being denied entry to the US where he was expected to perform at events in Houston and Miami.
In a Facebook post, he wrote, “Good evening to all my fans globally. It is with great disappointment and sadness in my heart that I type this Status to you tonight! I would like to publicly apologize to you my fans and all well-wishers that were looking forward to seeing me in person. I am deeply sorry for disappointing all of you! “
Reo recounted the experience stating, “While travelling to the United States on Thursday, October 3rd, I was detained for questioning by US immigration & customs authorities.
During that process, I was searched and on my phone, they found a flyer with my image on it. Though I’m an amateur performer doing international promotions to get my music career to the next level this meant to them that was travelling to the United States for gainful employment which is not permitted on my current visa class and I was denied entry into the United States.”
He was scheduled to perform in Houston at ‘Henny Glow’ on Saturday, October 5th. The event was formed part of the annual Houston Afro Creole Music Festival held over the weekend. On Friday 11th October, Reo was also expected to perform at ‘Souse & Punch and Riverland Mas Jouvert Band’ part of several events on the Miami Carnival calendar.
In a Facebook live broadcast on Sunday, the 25-year-old Colihaut native gave more details on the situation and also stated that despite the disappointment of not performing for his fans he is still optimistic. “I believe that everything happens for a reason and I’m truly trying to find the silver lining in this unfortunate situation.” He adds, “This could still have been a lot worse as I could have been barred for applying for a visa for years, but thankfully that is not the case. I was given the opportunity to reapply for the proper visa which I intend to do as soon as possible.”
He also noted that this was a learning experience for him and an opportunity to form a program or association to empower other artists like himself with the proper tools to spread their talent beyond the shores of Dominica. “I believe that there should be some kind of association in Dominica to help assist high potential artists in acquiring the proper visas and permits to work outside of the Region and I intend to work to develop such an organisation. Music is one of the best ways to promote Dominica and artist should be empowered by any means necessary to go out there and do just that”
He extends thanks to his manager Tridel Edwin who was accompanying him to the US as well as the promoters who tried their best to assist him in this peculiar situation. He is also grateful to Ms. Judith-Anne Rolle of the Dominica Consulate in Washington DC who mediated on his behalf with the immigration authorities.
Reo who is known by his catchphrase “Ok Boom” says he is not deterred by this ordeal and is still available for booking within the Caribbean and European markets until his visa situation is sorted out.
His repertoire includes songs such as “Sa Ka Bay” (which has garnered over 1.5 million views on YouTube), “Dominica I from,” and most recently, “Pay Me” (https://youtu.be/i6fyVXI5Y6Y).
REO ONLINE
https://www.facebook.com/Reo-ok-boom-236797807262684/
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