Clearsound Production Services Group has broken its silence regarding the controversy surrounding its withdrawal from Sting 2024, a move that event organizer Supreme Promotions claimed led to the last-minute cancellation of the highly anticipated Boxing Day show.
In a detailed statement issued on Thursday, Clearsound directly addressed allegations made by Supreme Promotions’ head, Isaiah Laing, dismissing them as unfounded and potentially defamatory. According to Clearsound, its decision to pull out stemmed from significant breaches of contract, including a failure to honor a critical financial agreement.
The Breach of Contract
Clearsound revealed it was contracted to provide comprehensive production services for Sting 2024, including audio, visuals, lighting, roofing systems, power generation, and pyrotechnics. The agreement required Supreme Promotions to make a J$8 million down payment by December 22, 2024. However, Clearsound alleged that only J$1 million—paid in installments—was received by December 23, with no evidence of the remaining J$7 million.
The company added that it was shown an image of a purported RTGS transaction for J$6.5 million, which it claims never materialized. The down payment, Clearsound emphasized, was just an initial mobilization fee, with additional payments due on December 26 during sound checks.
Extending Leniency, Facing Challenges
Despite the shortfall, Clearsound proceeded with preparations, citing its long-standing relationship with the event promoter. This decision, while generous, went against its standard operating policies. However, the company noted that the lack of full payment, coupled with other logistical failures, created insurmountable challenges.
“Critical vendors, such as security personnel, fencing, and lighting providers, were absent, leaving the event site in a state of disarray. Clearsound was the sole service provider present at the Jamworld location as of midday on December 26, 2024,” the statement read.
The company further accused Supreme Promotions of abandoning the venue without arranging for security, leaving Clearsound to bear the cost of safeguarding its equipment.
Decision to Cease Operations
Given the unresolved financial issues and unsafe conditions, Clearsound issued a cease-and-desist order, halting all operations for the event. The company explained that the decision was necessary to protect its team and equipment, which remained on-site until official cancellation notices were received.
“Even under these adverse conditions, our operations team completed 95% of the build, demonstrating our unwavering commitment to the event,” Clearsound stated.
A Regretful Conclusion
Clearsound expressed deep regret over the cancellation of Sting 2024, acknowledging the disappointment of patrons who had anticipated the event. Despite its efforts to salvage the show, the company said it was left feeling “abandoned, unsupported, thwarted, and deceived.”
The controversy casts a shadow over what was set to be a star-studded event, with performances by acts such as Tommy Lee Sparta, Turbulence, and Teflon. Clearsound reiterated its support for the vision of Sting but maintained that its decision to withdraw was unavoidable under the circumstances.
As the dust settles on this contentious episode, questions linger about the future of the iconic event and the potential implications for its organizers.
