Several artists have decided not to perform during a concert series celebrating the 250th anniversary of the United States. The line-up was announced earlier this week, but more than half of the nine announced acts have now announced that they will no longer participate.
Journalist at HLN
Source: ANP
Bret Michaels, known as the frontman of the group Poison, announced on Friday that he has canceled his performance. “When this opportunity was originally presented to my team, it was described as a celebration of our country and an opportunity to honor our veterans, active military, first responders, teachers and hardworking Americans from all walks of life,” Michaels wrote. According to him, the event has now become something that is “much more divisive”.
“Great American State Fair” starts June 25
The so-called Great American State Fair takes place from June 25 to July 10 and is organized by Freedom 250. The government of President Donald Trump launched that organization to set up initiatives around the US anniversary.
Rapper Young MC was one of the first names announced, but he quickly announced that he would not be performing. He stated that performers had not been informed of political involvement in the event. Young MC also pointed out that the event was described as “Trump-backed.”
The Commodores also cancel
Morris Day, The Commodores, C+C Music Factory, Martina McBride and Milli Vanilli have also canceled. “The Commodores will not perform,” the group said in a statement.
“We choose not to publicly affiliate with any political party.” Jodie Rocco, one of the members of the group Milli Vanilli, stated that no one even asked her to perform. “My sister and I were shocked to see our name Milli Vanilli among the performing artists,” she responded, according to various media.
Vanilla Ice has announced that he is still present. “I’m super honored to do this concert with everyone,” the rapper said in a video on Instagram.
