The highly anticipated Galiday Bounce New Year’s Eve concert, scheduled to take place at New York’s Amazura Concert Hall with headliner dancehall artist Kraff, has been unexpectedly postponed following a public contractual dispute between the artist and event promoter.
Event promoter Galdiez Mendez ignited tensions through social media broadcasts on Wednesday, accusing Kraff of failing to fulfill promotional obligations despite receiving substantial advance payments. Mendez claimed he expended approximately $59,000 on event preparations, including booking two suites at the Double Tree Hotel in Queens, New York, where supporting performers were already accommodated.
In emotional video statements, Mendez alleged that Kraff refused to participate in essential promotional activities, stating: “The artist claims he doesn’t do advertisements. How will audiences know he’s performing? I had to contact his associates in Jamaica to secure minimal promotional content.” Mendez demanded the return of $21,786 allegedly paid to Kraff for his performance.
Contrasting sharply with these allegations, Kraff’s management team issued an official statement explaining their decision to withdraw from the event. They asserted that the promoter repeatedly failed to honor contractual obligations and unexpectedly characterized the event as a “benefit concert” without prior discussion or approval.
The statement emphasized: “Kraff, his management, and representatives provided the promoter with extensive opportunities to resolve outstanding issues. The artist maintains professional standards and cannot compromise on safety, logistics, or production quality. Financial and operational responsibility rested entirely with the promoter.”
Ticket holders have been advised to contact the promoter or their point of purchase regarding refund procedures. The postponed event was slated to feature additional performances by Tatik, Kkrytical, Sita, Foota Hype, Joe Young, FyaaMan, and Kayson Full Charge. Kraff’s team expressed hope for future performances in New York under appropriately professional circumstances.