APRIL 2023 THE VOICE
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News Feature
ARE UNDER ATTACK ‘UNFAIR’: West African singers say their applications for visas to come to the UK are unreasonably scrutinised; right, Home Secretary Suella Braverman at the construction site of UK’s Rwanda immigration detention camp
‘MISPLACED POLICY’: Rocky Dawuni, far left, has called for an easing of regulations once artists can prove they are ‘credible’ (photo: Life in Lens); left, Ghanaian singer Nii Funny had a visa application refused in 2021
‘PROCESS LIKE HELL’: Emmanuel Boakye Bidewtey
West African singers say their applications for visas to come to the UK are being unreasonably scrutinised and they are required to submit endless
amounts of proof that they are really recording artists — which they say is unfair and discriminatory. Many are calling for a reform of the current regulations to ensure African singers have the same rights as American and European Union artists to travel and enter Britain to perform at concerts. Three-time Grammy nominated musician Rocky Dawuni called for the easing of regulations once artists can prove they are “credible” and “established in their own country.” He said: “They are coming to the UK to play, I think there should be a fast-track of helping these artists to be able to come and do what they do.” Speaking to The Voice from Costa Rica ahead of a performance, he said: “Obviously
living in Ghana, I’ve had musicians who have tried to travel and some members would get visas and others would be denied. “It’s a really complicated process and system because every embassy has their rules, regulations and requirements about how artists can get visas and also work permits to be able to perform.” Mr Dawuni is currently working on a new album and his new single Never Bow Down, which features Jamaican artist Blvk H3ro. He told The Voice he is unsure if there is a “bigger plan to suppress” African music and “keep it at bay” but whatever is driving the difficulties in artists getting to perform abroad is a “misplaced policy”. “It is diminishing the music at a time when African music is on the rise, African music is
It is diminishing the music at a time when African music is breaking new boundaries breaking new boundaries and African music is connecting with new audiences.” Afrobeats and Afro-dancehall artist Article Wan said that while he has never been denied a UK visa, many of his musical peers have experienced problems. He said: “The artist maybe travelling with five dancers going for a show and most of the time three dancers are going to be given a visa and two are going to be denied.” The Accra-based musician says this makes things difficult and “destroys their craft” and creativity. Article Wan, real name
Bright Homenya, told The Voice he knows of several artists who have had their applications denied, but said many don’t want to make it public for “their brand’s sake”. He said: “The embassy will give you their reasons, which you can’t do anything about. You need to reapply again or wait for some time, and if you have to perform within a particular time you cannot even go, it will stop you. “Music is broad, people want to travel, go and shoot music videos, and go and link up with other artists and promoters and spread their wings.” He added that money is being
wasted on applications which have no chance of being approved. Article Wan said he has an assistant to help him with his applications but is aware other artists do not have the same support. A Home Office spokesperson said: “Musicians and performers are a valued and important part of UK culture with the country attracting world class entertainers and musicians from around the globe. “This is why we offer a dedicated immigration route for creative workers. “All visa applications are carefully considered on their individual merits in accordance with the immigration rules. “The application process is designed to ensure that all visa decisions can be made using the most accurate information and is fair for all applicants.”
