I recently traveled to the U.S. from my current home of Querétaro Mexico, and I must admit to being a little nervous about the trip. My nervousness was based in part on my history with border crossings. For context, my full name was once referred to by a border agent as, "the trifecta of common Latin names." I've been subjected to additional screening lines and the backrooms at land borders and airports. As you might guess, the current climate of immigration and deportations added to my anxiety. My recent border crossing was uneventful, although I did witness ICE agents screening a couple between the ticket counter and jet bridge of my flight home. 😬

Upon my return, a friend shared a relevant news article with me about an Austin-based drummer of Mexican descent who was apparently removed from his flight by Customs and Border Protection agents. Mexican immigrant and legal resident of the U.S. Yamal Said was flying with his band Lord Buffalo to Amsterdam for upcoming tour dates with the band.

This all got me thinking about a recent conversation that Immigration Attorney Maggie Stewart and I had for an episode of The Unstarving Musician. This conversation with Maggie reveals how complex international touring can be, even for something that seems as straightforward as crossing into Canada.

When the Border Becomes the Stage

The timing of Yamal Said's circumstances shows how a legal permanent resident can get caught up in the intersection of immigration law and criminal justice. And I think it's fair to say that Said is one of our own (a fellow musician), hence today's topic.

​According to the Austin Statesman, "Online records indicate Said is being held at the Tarrant County Corrections Center in Fort Worth and stands accused of violating a bond or protective order at least two times over the past 12 months — a third-degree felony under Texas law. His bond is listed at $40,000."

The Wake-Up Call Most Musicians Need

Many musicians don't realize that if you're in the United States and you've ever been arrested and fingerprinted, you should obtain your FBI report. That's Immigration Attorney Maggie Stewart's advice, and it isn't just for those planning Canadian tours—it's essential knowledge for any musician who might cross borders.

Your FBI report might surprise you. People are often surprised to see what's on their FBI report. Sometimes an FBI report will show charges, but won't show the charges were dismissed. Sometimes people think they've had things expunged or sealed, and they still show up on the FBI report.

The Yamal Said situation demonstrates how even legal permanent residents with decades of community ties can face unexpected complications. While his case appears related to alleged protective order violations rather than immigration status, it shows how criminal matters can instantly derail tours and careers.

The Scope Is Broader Than You Think

For Canadian entry specifically, just about anything that would be a conviction in the United States, Mexico or Australia will trigger a red flag for Canadian border crossings. Theft, drug possession, drinking and driving, and assault are among the many such triggers. In the US, there's a legal distinction between felonies and misdemeanors, but for Canadian immigration purposes, that distinction doesn't matter—both can prevent your entry.

Reader Spotlight: The Anxiety Factor

This week's topic comes from the "Liner Notes Survey."

The featured survey question today is:

"What's your biggest challenge right now?"

The featured response comes from Keith, who responded:

"Getting over my anxiety to start getting solo gigs."

I can relate to this having recently started a solo gig of sorts myself. I've always been a drummer who sings backup and occasionally lead vocals, but I've always wanted to sing in a frontman capacity. The confidence-building for me was slow and luck was involved—my luck took the form of a friend who believed in me.

The key lesson? Sometimes we need someone else to see what we can't yet see in ourselves. For Keith and others facing this anxiety, consider who in your circle already supports your music. The key is being honest about what you want to do and specific about your vision.

Want More?

This is just the beginning. In Liner Notes Insider, I dive deep into:

• Maggie Stewart's strategic advice for getting ahead of border issues
• The three-month rule for international touring
• Documentation strategies that can save your tour
• How tour managers handle these challenges proactively
• More detailed advice for overcoming performance anxiety

As a Liner Notes Insider, you'll also get:

• Deep-dive analysis and actionable strategies from extensive industry research
• Expert interview breakdowns with step-by-step implementation guides
• Access to my curated resource library and tools
• Monthly Q&A sessions for personalized guidance
• Priority access to special events and workshops
• First look at new resources and research findings

Coming Up...

I'm still contemplating the next topic, but you can hit reply to let me know if there's something you'd like me to write about. 📬

Resources

​Austin drummer's removal from flight appears related to criminal warrant, not immigration action

​Mundial Law (Maggie Stewart's firm)

​Ep 323 Canadian Immigration: Essential Legal Guide for Touring Musicians with Maggie Stewart

Peace, love and more cowbell,
Robonzo

Stay in touch!
​Instagram | Facebook | YouTube | Threads | X (Twitter)​

Questions, thoughts, complaints? Just hit reply to reach me directly! I'd love to hear from you. 📬

Support the Unstarving Musician

If you LOVE this newsletter, please visit UnstarvingMusician.com/CrowdSponsor to learn about the many ways of showing your love and support.

We have a new tip jar there, so you know... Click, tip, done.

Your support = Love 💟

Affiliate Partner Resources

You can also support us by using one of our affiliate partner links below–we'll receive a small commission. Thanks for your support! 👊🏼

Kit – Email Marketing for Musicians

Kit (formerly ConvertKit) is an email marketing and audience building software that helps musicians like you turn your passion into a full-time career by connecting you to your fans faster. Start a free trial.

Dreamhost Web Hosting for Everyone

We make sure your website is fast, secure & always up - so your visitors & search engines trust you. Guaranteed. Learn more about DreamHost plans!​

Explore more cool products and services on our Resources page. 👀

​Share this email and/or read it on the web​

​Schedule a call with me 📞

​UnstarvingMusician.com​