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Several musical artists announced this week that they will no longer participate in a major America 250 celebration event in Washington, D.C., despite being listed as performers by organizers tied to a Trump-backed initiative.
The event, called the “Great American State Fair,” is being organized by Freedom 250, a public-private partnership supporting celebrations for the nation’s 250th anniversary. Organizers unveiled a “first wave” lineup Wednesday featuring artists including Morris Day and the Time, Young MC, Martina McBride, The Commodores, Vanilla Ice, Flo Rida, C+C Music Factory and Bret Michaels.
But shortly after the announcement, at least four acts publicly distanced themselves from the event, with some citing concerns about its political associations.
Morris Day and the Time announced on social media that they would not perform at the event, adding: “Contrary To Rumor, Morris Day & The Time Will Not Be Performing At The ‘GREAT AMERICAN STATE FAIR.’”
“The artists were never told about any political involvement with the event,” Young MC wrote in a social media post Wednesday. “I hope to perform in D.C. in the near future at an event that is not so politically charged.”
Country singer Martina McBride said she believed the celebration would be nonpartisan.
“I asked lots of questions and was assured this was a nonpartisan event that was meant to celebrate ALL 50 states,” McBride wrote Thursday. “Yesterday things started changing and what we were told is, in fact, not what is happening.”
Meanwhile, The Commodores said the group prefers not to align publicly with political causes.
“Our music has always been our voice and we choose not to publicly affiliate with any single political party,” the band posted on X. “We support the betterment of all Americans.”
Freedom 250 spokesperson Rachel Reisner rejected suggestions that the organization is partisan, describing it as a nonprofit focused on commemorating the country’s 250th anniversary.
“Freedom 250 is focused on our signature celebrations and events that honor our history and engage all Americans,” Reisner said in a statement. “Welcoming all who share our goal of commemorating this milestone in a way that uplifts and unites America.”
The event is backed by an initiative supported by and is scheduled to run from June 25 through July 10 on the National Mall.
Organizers say the festivities will include state and territory showcases, a 110-foot Ferris wheel, discussions led by business executives and innovators, and screenings of the films and.
The White House has separately promoted additional America 250-themed events, including a proposed IndyCar race around the National Mall and a UFC event at the White House.
Not all performers have backed away from the event. A representative for Vanilla Ice confirmed Thursday that the rapper still plans to perform.
“He is proud to help celebrate America’s 250th Anniversary,” his management agency said in a statement.
