Katayanagi Twins Denied U.S. Entry Before Major Festival Performance

The Auckland-based DJ duo, the Katayanagi Twins, have been denied entry into the United States, halting their plans to perform at the annual Polyfest festival in Washington. Rain and China Katayanagi were traveling to Los Angeles when they encountered issues at immigration that led to their return to New Zealand.

In a social media post, Rain Katayanagi shared their frustration, stating they had been “flying to LA to chase Summer.” The post included a video montage of their flight experience, concluding with the message that the “country doesn’t let us in,” as they were placed on a one-way flight back to Auckland. Emotional footage revealed one of the twins visibly upset during their departure.

The reason behind their denied entry remains unclear. RNZ has reached out to both the Katayanagi Twins and their management for further details but has yet to receive a response. This incident raises questions about the challenges artists from abroad face when entering the U.S. for performances.

Their planned performance at Polyfest was highly anticipated, as the festival celebrates Pacific culture and is a significant event in the region. In light of the twins’ situation, General Fiyah, another artist scheduled to perform, expressed his disappointment via social media. “I am really sorry to let you all know that I won’t be able to make the performance tonight,” he wrote. “I was detained and sent back to New Zealand, which means I can’t be there to share this moment with you.”

This incident reflects a broader issue regarding immigration policies and the experiences of international artists. Earlier this month, Sarah Shaw, a New Zealand mother, faced detainment with her six-year-old son at an immigration facility in Texas. They were safely returned to their home in Washington state the following week.

As the music industry continues to navigate the complexities of international travel, the challenges faced by artists, such as the Katayanagi Twins, highlight the precarious nature of live performances in different countries. The impact of such experiences on artists, their careers, and their fans cannot be overstated.