At least seven of the nine musical acts scheduled to perform at a concert series organised by the Trump administration for the US's 250th anniversary have withdrawn within 48 hours of the lineup being announced. The Freedom 250 series, set to take place on Washington DC's National Mall, has seen a mass exodus of performers citing misleading information and political divisiveness.
Bret Michaels, frontman of Poison, became the latest to pull out on Friday, stating that the event had evolved into something more divisive than he had agreed to. He also cited safety concerns due to threats against his fans, band, and family. Morris Day dropped out first, calling his involvement a baseless rumour, followed by Young MC, who said artists were never told about political involvement.
The Commodores, C+C Music Factory, Martina McBride, and Milli Vanilli also withdrew or expressed surprise at being booked. The Commodores stated they choose not to affiliate with any political party. C+C Music Factory's Freedom Williams said he was blindsided and his agent had not mentioned any Trump connection. McBride said she was misled about the event being nonpartisan. Milli Vanilli singer Jodie Rocco said no one had asked her or her sister to perform.
Vanilla Ice remains the only confirmed act, expressing honour at performing, though it is unclear if others will join. The rapper has previously performed at Trump's Mar-a-Lago events.
