At least seven of the nine musical acts scheduled to perform in a concert series organized by the Trump administration to mark the US's 250th anniversary have withdrawn within 48 hours of the lineup announcement. The series, called Freedom 250, was intended to celebrate the nation's semiquincentennial on Washington DC's National Mall.
Bret Michaels, frontman of Poison, became the latest to pull out on Friday, citing a deteriorating atmosphere and threats. In a statement, he said the event had become "much more divisive than what I agreed to be a part of" and that concerns over safety had prompted his decision.
Morris Day was the first to drop out, calling his participation a baseless "rumor". Young MC followed, stating he was never told about any political involvement. The Commodores, C+C Music Factory, Martina McBride, and Milli Vanilli also withdrew, with several expressing surprise at being booked.
Freedom Williams of C+C Music Factory said he was blindsided by friends' reactions and only learned of the Trump connection after researching the event. Martina McBride said she was misled into believing the event was nonpartisan. Milli Vanilli's Jodie Rocco said no one from the group had been asked to perform.
Vanilla Ice remains the only confirmed performer, stating he is "super honored" to take part. The rapper has previously performed at Trump's Mar-a-Lago club.
