Cardi B vs. Promoter: $2.5M Fee Dispute Explodes

Cardi B's highly anticipated stadium headlining debut in Jamaica for the BZR WKND festival has become entangled in considerable controversy. The rapper took to Instagram Live to address promoter Ryan Burke's accusations and his intent to sue her following her withdrawal. Burke alleged that Cardi B was paid her full $2.5 million fee but refused to return the money.

A representative for Cardi B issued a statement exclusively to Billboard, refuting Burke's claims. They asserted that Cardi B was not paid in full and that the organizers materially breached the agreement by failing to fulfill their payment obligations, leading to her cancellation.

BZR WKND representatives also provided a statement, asserting that Cardi B failed to provide required promotional support after receiving the initial deposit. They reasserted that the Jamaican government was not involved in covering her performance fee and reiterated their intention to pursue legal action against the artist and her team for alleged defamation.

Cardi B stated she was only paid a deposit of around $900,000 out of a $1 million advance, with subsequent payments for production costs also allegedly missed by the organizers. She returned a late $750,000 payment due to logistical issues and argued that the festival was being misrepresented as a solo concert.

Promoter Ryan Burke, in contrast, claimed Cardi B received the full $2.5 million payment directly and did not perform on the rescheduled date. He further stated that attempts to recover the money were unsuccessful, prompting legal action. Cardi B fired back, challenging Burke to sue her in court and denying defamation. She also apologized to the Jamaican government, clarifying their non-involvement in the festival's finances, a stance officially confirmed by the Ministry of Culture, Gender, Entertainment and Sport.