Lord Buffalo, a Texas-based rock band, was forced to cancel their European tour as their drummer, Yamal Said, was detained by US Customs and Border Protection. Despite being a legal permanent resident of the United States for decades, Said, a Mexican citizen, was removed from a flight without contact with his bandmates. The band expressed devastation over the situation, focusing on securing Said’s release and ensuring his safety.

Said’s arrest highlights the broader crackdown on immigration and border entry under the Trump administration, with several musicians facing issues entering or leaving the US in recent months. Members of the British punk band UK Subs were denied entry due to visa complications, while singer-songwriter Bells Larsen canceled a tour due to new US immigration policies that do not recognize transgender identities. FKA twigs and Trupa Trupa also faced visa-related tour disruptions.

Lord Buffalo’s tour cancellation drew support from Orsak:Oslo, who emphasized the injustice of Said’s detention and the importance of free movement for artists. The situation underscores the challenges musicians face amid evolving immigration policies. The band continues to work with legal representation to address the uncertainty surrounding Said’s detainment and emphasizes the need for privacy as they navigate the complex situation.