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Martina McBride
Country star Martina McBride was among the first major names linked to the concert who later stepped away.
The fact that the event has turned political, which has angered many fans , r drawndly played a role in Martina’s withdrawal. McBride has generally stayed away from overt political affiliations throughout her career, making the Trump connection especially controversial among fans.
Bret Michaels
Poison frontman Bret Michaels also reportedly dropped out of the concert lineup as criticism of the event intensified.
While Michaels has performed at politically themed events before, insiders say several artists were allegedly told the festival would be more of a broad patriotic celebration than a Trump-associated gathering.
Young MC
Rapper Young MC was one of the earliest performers to pull out. According to multiple reports, his departure triggered additional concern among other musicians attached to the event.
Speaking with Vibe, he said, “I had no clue it was considered a ‘Trump-backed’ event, so that was new to me My whole thing was, ‘Tell me what the event is, what it’s about, who you are, and then give me the choice of whether I want to do the event or not.’ I was never given that choice. I was told one thing and then it was a bait-and-switch. All the comments I’ve seen from the artists that have dropped out thought it was supposed to be a regular show in D.C.
The Commodores
Many probably looked forward to seeing the legendary funk and soul group The Commodores. However, they also backed away from the celebration.
The group became one of the biggest names to distance themselves from the event as criticism mounted online over the political messaging surrounding Freedom 250.
“The Commodores will not be performing at the Great American State Fair,” a statement from the group read. “Our music has always been our voice and we choose not to publicly affiliate with any single political party. We support the betterment of all Americans.