ST JAMES, Jamaica— Peyton Morgan-Kenton, manager of trap dancehall act Eddy G Bomba, believes the police should engage with the artiste to find a mutual solution, instead of disapproving events that feature the fast-rising star who is widely known for a song that allegedly glorifies motorists mowing down cops holding speed guns.

Morgan-Kenton was speaking to the Observer Online on Wednesday after news broke that police chief for St James, Superintendent Eron Samuels had instituted this order.

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“While I understand the police’s concern for public safety, I believe that an outright ban could be seen as an extreme response. Artistic expression often touches on controversial or difficult subjects, and while it’s important to address the potential impact of harmful messages, censorship may not be the best solution. Instead, there could be open dialogue between the authorities and the artiste about the content and its implications,” he said.

He further stated that he and his team understand the police’s concerns about the possible negative implications of the song, but insisted that the lyrics are not a threat to the law personnel.

“The police are likely worried about the message being interpreted as an endorsement of criminal behaviour, which could incite negative actions and undermine efforts to maintain public order. However, this is not intended as a threat to any police officers, but rather an expression of frustration over how some police exploit the law and mistreat citizens on the streets which is well documented across social media and many legal reports.”

“It’s an experience shared by many Jamaicans. There are far more serious issues in today’s society, especially in Montego Bay, that deserve attention, rather than focusing on someone’s right to express themselves,” Morgan-Kenton said, adding that traffic stops are valid.

The song, ‘No Cap, has racked up more than one million views on the streaming platform, YouTube. It has also become the soundtrack for games and memes making the rounds on Tik Tok. ‘No Cap’ began gaining popularity in August after a cop was hit by a motorist in St Andrew.

The artiste’s manager said that the news of the restriction has heavy implications on the artiste’s career in several ways, and believes that other societal ills should be the main focus, and not freedom of expression.

“The ban has likely had a significant impact on the artiste’s career, both financially and reputationally. Not being able to perform in Montego Bay, a key hub for entertainment, limits his opportunities for exposure and income. Additionally, the negative attention surrounding the ban could harm his relationship with fans and industry stakeholders. However, it could also open up a conversation about the role of music in reflecting societal issues, which might lead to growth if handled constructively,” the manager said.

He added: “Also when it comes to freedom of speech, this is an issue that should be addressed by political leaders, not the police. The police’s over-involvement in social matters might be one of the reasons why people in Jamaican society lack confidence in the force and may also have less respect for both them and the services they provide. Aren’t they supposed to focus on serving the public and tackling issues that truly affect them, such as the rising murder rate?”