Capleton Granted UK Visa For First Time Since 2010
Prophet Rides Again singer Capleton will make a triumphant return to the United Kingdom for the first time in 13 years, thanks to a recently granted work permit.
Cabel Stephenson and Tameka Reynolds, the principals of Free People Entertainment, are the masterminds behind the move which has paved the way for the Rastafarian reggae star’s return to the lucrative UK market.
Stephenson noted that despite initial reservations about the artist, Capleton’s evolution on the matter of discrimination and his humanitarian efforts prevailed.
“We approached it with an open mind and we focused on Capleton’s ability as an artist, a humanitarian and a great human being. There was an objection for obvious reasons but we’re past those obstacles, he’s evolved beyond certain perceptions,” he told DancehallMag.
“Capleton is a loving person, a humanitarian person, he has applied himself in his community everyday, he gives to the less fortunate and indigent in his community, his door is always open to them. He has given generously to hospitals, schools, communities and individuals. He is a humanitarian in every sense of the word. He doesn’t discriminate against people based on any orientation,” Stephenson added.
Capleton, 56, whose real name is Clifton George Bailey III, has often been criticized for lyrics that allegedly advocate for violence against homosexuals.
In 2007, per The Guardian, he was one of several Jamaican artists, including Beenie Man and Sizzla, who signed the Reggae Compassionate Act, pledging not to sing songs “inciting hatred or violence against anyone from any community.” However, three years later, activists were still protesting what they said were only “cosmetic changes” made by Capleton after he signed the Act.
Capleton is booked to appear as a special guest on a show in December 2023, and he will be doing a Spring tour in the UK in 2024.
He is presently on a tour organized by Free People Entertainment and Mediacom. The Wings of the Morning artist has upcoming dates at Evenstar in Mouilleron-le-Captif in France on November 2, before heading off to the Le Splendid in Lille on November 3, and Lyon on November 7.
His remaining seven performances will span The Netherlands, Italy, the Slovakian capital Bratislava, with additional performances in France.
‘The Fireman’ is said to be bringing back the authentic vibe and energy in the music that Europeans love and are accustomed to.
He’s also working on a new album, his first studio project in over a decade, which Stephenson said will be geared towards energizing Capleton’s fanbase. “All his supporters will be looking out for this new album. It has been a while since his fans haven’t heard from him,” he said.
Capleton is best known in the United States for songs like That Day Will Come, Who Dem?, Bombo Red, Tour, Jah Jah City, and Wings of the Morning.