Kid Rock's Rock the Country Festival Hit by Fourth Artist Withdrawal
Rock band Shinedown has pulled out of Kid Rock's 2026 Rock the Country music festival, marking the fourth act to exit the lineup amid significant fan backlash. The band announced their decision on Friday, 6 February 2026, stating they aimed to avoid participating in an event they believe would "create further division." This move follows a series of withdrawals that have cast a shadow over the controversial festival.
Fan Criticism and Political Tensions Fuel Exits
Shinedown's inclusion in the festival had drawn sharp criticism from fans who were displeased with the band aligning with Kid Rock, a vocal supporter of former President Donald Trump. The backlash highlights the ongoing political divisions within the music industry, where artists' associations can spark intense reactions from their audiences. Kid Rock has previously hailed Trump as a "DEI dragon slayer," adding to the polarising nature of the festival.
Prior to Shinedown's exit, rapper Ludacris was removed from the lineup, with his representative attributing it to a "mix-up." Additionally, country singers Carter Faith and Morgan Wade have quietly withdrawn, though their reasons were not publicly detailed. These departures suggest a growing trend of artists distancing themselves from events perceived as politically charged or divisive.
Festival Details and Remaining Lineup
The Rock the Country festival is scheduled to run in eight US cities from May to September 2026, featuring a mix of country and rock artists. Despite the recent exits, the lineup still includes notable acts such as Jelly Roll, Jason Aldean, and Nelly. Organisers have not yet commented on how these withdrawals might impact the festival's operations or ticket sales.
This situation underscores the challenges event planners face in navigating the complex landscape of artist politics and fan expectations. As the festival approaches, it remains to be seen whether further acts will follow suit or if Kid Rock's event can weather the storm of controversy.
