The Great American State Fair appears to have some drama surrounding its lineup of performers.
Hours after event organizers announced the initial lineup of special guests, speakers and performers for the 16-day national exposition, some booked musicians said they wanted no part in the event set to take place in Washington D.C. between June 25 through July 10.
“Contrary to rumor, Morris Day & the Time will not be performing at the ‘Great American State Fair,’” Morris Day wrote via Instagram on Wednesday, May 27. “It’s A No For Me😎.”
Young MC also reacted to seeing his name on the initial lineup, claiming he would not be participating in the event.
“I have informed my agents that I will not be performing at the Freedom 250 event. The artists were never told about any political involvement with the event,” he claimed via Instagram on Wednesday. “And despite the claims by the organizers that the event is non-partisan, SPIN magazine describes it as Trump-backed. I hope to perform in D.C. in the near future at an event that is not so politically charged.”
C+C Music Factory frontman Freedom Williams became the third artist to pull out of the festival, but later backtracked on his statement during an 8-minute video on social media.
“Worry about this and not who I’m performing for or with America 250,” he wrote via Instagram on Wednesday before clarifying that, “I don’t f*** with Trump.”
According to a press release, Freedom 250 is a “national, non-partisan organization leading the celebration of our Nation’s 250th birthday.”
Country singer Martina McBride is expected to kick off the fair next month with Vanilla Ice, The Commodores, Flo Rida and Bret Michaels performing on other dates.
The event, which touts a 110-foot Ferris wheel, a carousel, rodeo-style events as well as livestock exhibits, is scheduled to kick off weeks after the June 14 “UFC Freedom 250” event also honoring the 250th anniversary of the United States’ founding.
“The Great American State Fair will bring together people from all 56 states and territories to celebrate the traditions, innovation, music, military heritage, freedom and entrepreneurial spirit that define our nation,” Freedom 250 CEO Keith Krach said in a statement announcing the lineup via The Hill. “The performers, innovators, military heroes and everyday Americans showcased here represent the very best of who we are, and the boundless opportunity ahead.”
Event organizers teased that the Great American State Fair will also feature daily themed programming celebrating American history, innovation, culture, faith, military service, education, wellness and the future of the nation.
Activities include overlooking the National Mall and other family-friendly and educational programming.
Americans can RSVP for up to four tickets per event online now.
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