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What happened
Bad Bunny, the Puerto Rican megastar, has decided against touring the U.S. during his current world tour, expressing concerns that ICE could target his Latino fans at concerts. Instead, he performed 30 shows in Puerto Rico, significantly boosting local tourism. His decision highlights a growing apprehension among international artists regarding the U.S. concert landscape, particularly amid increased visa complications and fears of enforcement actions. The Department of Homeland Security has countered Bad Bunny's claims, asserting that ICE does not conduct raids at concert venues. Despite this, many artists remain wary, with reports of visa issues causing cancellations and delays for acts like the Korean boy band Be:Max and Australian duo TwoSet Violin. The new visa application process requires performers to return to their home countries for interviews, adding financial and logistical burdens. As a result, artists may increasingly choose to forgo U.S. tours altogether.
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Key insights
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1
Artist Concerns
International artists are increasingly worried about touring in the U.S. due to ICE enforcement.
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2
Visa Complications
New visa application processes create significant hurdles for performers.
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3
DHS Response
The Department of Homeland Security disputes claims of ICE targeting concerts.
Takeaways
The current climate may deter many international artists from touring in the United States.