UB40 in limbo: will the concert be a go or a no?

Fans of UB40 in Saipan and Guam were upset by a Saturday night social media post from the band that is currently in New Zealand—one of their stops before their supposed concert in the Marianas this weekend.

“Having just arrived in New Zealand for the Ragamuffin Festival following two great shows in Australia it is with regret that the Guam and Saipan dates have been cancelled,” UB40 said in their official Facebook page.

The band went on to point the fault to the promoter, Steven Brownstein Entertainment, and that those who purchased tickets should contact them for a refund.

“This is completely out of our control as the appropriate visa’s allowing UB40 to perform in these territories will not be ready in time due to the fault of the promoter,” UB40 said, “If you have purchased your tickets and require a refund please contact the promoter Steven Brownstein Entertainment.”

UB40 added that they hope to “reschedule soon.”

In a response, Steven Brownstein Entertainment issued an announcement saying that the statements and accusations are false.

“We at Steven Brownstein Entertainment are fully aware of the public announcement made by the band UB40 via their website and social media. We understand that this announcement has caused a great deal of confusion and we apologize for the inconvenience,” SBE said.

“Note that we do not endorse or support the actions and accusations that have been circulating via social media. We understand your concerns but note that these statements and accusations are truly false and we do not appreciate the misrepresentation,” it added.

Some backlash from disappointed fans was posted on UB40’s post. Others pointed out that two of SBE’s events have now been cancelled in a row. Rapper Flo Rida was supposed to hold a concert in Guam and Saipan last month but was postponed until further notice “due to unresolved scheduling issues.”

Several concerned fans also posted on SBE’s account for confirmation of UB40’s announcement.

SBE clarified to the public that they are not in the business to be dishonest to their vendors, sponsors, affiliates. and loyal fans and that they are not in the business to defraud anyone nor do they wish to delay customer refunds under any unfortunate circumstance.

They added that they are “not in the business to spend thousands of dollars promoting an event to then turn around and waste everyone’s time.”

“For those of you who know us—you will know that behind the scenes all SBE events are personally funded by the man Mr. Brownstein himself and we are proud to bring world-class entertainment to the Marianas,” SBE said.

SBE said the concert is not cancelled and that a final update will be announced today.

“We will have an update for all of our fans and customers in the next 24 hours and until then, your usual cooperation and support is greatly appreciated,” SBE said.