Texas country music artist Charley Crockett has called off his tour in Canada, which included a show in Saskatoon, after being refused entry into the country over a previous drug conviction. Originally scheduled to perform at Saskatoon’s TCU Place and several other Canadian cities, he expressed regret over the situation, citing his past haunting him.
Crockett, aged 41, disclosed that he and his band attempted to enter Canada through Vancouver and Kelowna, British Columbia, but were denied entry due to a 2016 conviction for felony possession and trafficking of marijuana. This incident led to the cancellation of his upcoming Canadian tour dates, disappointing both fans and fellow musicians.
Known for his country-folk music, Charley Crockett has released 15 albums since 2015, with his latest record, “Age Of The Ram,” set to debut on April 3 as part of his Sagebrush Trilogy. Despite the setback in Canada, his North American tour, which commenced in Seattle and will continue in Pennsylvania on March 7, remains unaffected.
The cancellation of the Canadian leg of the tour has had a widespread impact on the local arts, culture, and economy, according to Kirby Wirchenko, the director of theatre and programming at TCU Place. Despite the venue’s role as a rental for Live Nation, the cancellation has affected various stakeholders, including local staff, opening acts, and disappointed fans.
Wirchenko had envisioned an “Americana roots week” at TCU Place, featuring performances by Charley Crockett alongside artists like Matt Anderson and William Prince. Refunds are being processed for ticket holders as the community navigates the aftermath of the unexpected tour cancellation.