politics
Some artists drop out of D.C. concert series for America's 250th anniversary shortly after lineup announced
Updated on: May 28, 2026 / 11:44 PM EDT / CBS News
TL;DR
- Several artists announced for the Great American State Fair, celebrating America's 250th anniversary, have backed out.
- Artists like Morris Day, Young MC, and The Commodores stated they will not perform, citing concerns about the event's political ties.
- Young MC explicitly mentioned that despite organizers' claims, SPIN magazine described the event as Trump-backed.
- Milli Vanilli's actual singers were not asked to perform, despite being advertised.
- Martina McBride withdrew, stating she was assured the event was nonpartisan, which turned out to be misleading.
- Vanilla Ice and C+C Music Factory's Freedom Williams are still scheduled to perform, with Williams stating he doesn't support Trump but will still participate.
- Freedom 250 maintains the event is nonpartisan and aims to unite Americans around the 250th anniversary milestone.