ATLANTA, GEORGIA – SEPTEMBER 19, 2025: Joey Valence and Brae perform on stage on the first day of the Shaky Knees Music Festival at Piedmont Park, Atlanta. (Photo: Terence Rushin/Getty Images)
On December 4, the United States Department of Homeland Security (DHS) released a promotional video for ICE, featuring Joey Valence & Brae’s track “HOOLIGANG.”
The video highlights ICE agents at their Buffalo, New York facility and includes images of armoured vehicles with additional agents. At the end, the DHS seal is displayed along with ICE’s official website, join.ice.gov. The DHS caption reads: “This winter, the forecast calls for ICE.”
After the video was posted, Joey Valence expressed his displeasure, stating that their music “was used without our knowledge or consent to promote I.C.E.” He clarified that the video does not represent his personal beliefs and that he is working to have it removed.
Joey Valence, born Joseph Bertolino, is a Pennsylvania-based hip-hop artist. He is part of the punk rap duo JVB, also known as Joey Valence & Brae. “Brae” is Braedan Lugue. The pair met at Pennsylvania State University, became friends, and started making music together. Their debut track “Crank It Up” was released in 2021. JVB is signed with RCA Records.
To date, Joey Valence & Brae have released three albums. The most recent, “Hyperyouth,” was released on 15 August 2025.
| Information | Details |
|---|---|
| Real Name | Joseph Bertolino |
| Stage Name | Joey Valence |
| Music Duo | JVB (Joey Valence & Brae) |
| “Brae” Stands For | Braedan Lugue |
| Debut Track | Crank It Up (2021) |
| Record Label | RCA Records |
| Latest Album | Hyperyouth (15 August 2025) |