Benga cancels US tour dates and Coachella appearance due to visa issues
"I am absolutely gutted, my team and I have worked tirelessly on making this happen"
Benga has pulled out of a string of US tour dates due to visa issues. The announcement was made on social media yesterday.
"I am absolutely gutted, my team and I have worked tirelessly on making this happen," the pioneering dubstep artist wrote. "But hey, I’m respecting the process and staying positive."
The issue has emerged due to unexpected requests for "additional information", and the situation will affect all back-to-back bookings with fellow dubstep pioneer, Skream. This includes Coachella festival this weekend.
"I really appreciate all the love and support you’ve shown me since I’ve been back. I am truly sorry for all of the inconvenience and disappointment this causes, and I promise to keep you updated on what’s happening," he continued. "For the upcoming shows, Skream will be handling duties like a don, and we have called on some of the OGs to step up in my place."
A four-night run in Denver, Palm Springs' Surf Club Weekend, and a date at San Francisco's Regency Ballroom will also be impacted. The latter will now see Mala step in, with alternative guests still being confirmed for other events at the time of writing.
In his post, Benga alluded to the mental health issues that saw him retreat from the spotlight for several years, and his delight at feeling well enough to get back on the road, before assuring fans that he would be joining Skream at Coachella in 2025. "I’ve am doing well and have had the best two years health wise and I am ready to get back out there. The journey hasn’t been easy, but getting the chance to tour again with Skream has been amazing... Thanks for sticking with me through this!"
