NEW YORK (AP) - Following the announcement by the President Donald Trump-affiliated organization Freedom 250 regarding the lineup for "The Great American State Fair," several performers, including Milli Vanilli and Morris Day, have expressed their intention not to participate in the event. The fair is scheduled to take place on Washington's National Mall from June 25 to July 10, with performances slated throughout that period.
Morris Day and Young MC took to social media to refute claims regarding their participation, while Jodie Rocco, a member of Milli Vanilli, revealed to The Associated Press that she and her sister, Linda Rocco, were never invited to perform. "My sister and I were shocked to see our name, ‘Milli Vanilli’, as one of the performers," Jodie Rocco stated in an email.
Freedom 250, launched by Trump late last year, is touted as a national, non-partisan organization aimed at leading the celebrations for the 250th anniversary of the United States. Keith Krach, a former under secretary of state during Trump's administration, serves as the organization’s CEO. However, the organization has faced pushback from various artists who share a contentious relationship with Trump’s administration.
Notably, prominent musicians such as Celine Dion, Elton John, and Guns N' Roses have objected to the use of their music at Trump rallies, indicating a historical friction between the music community and Trump's political activities.
In an Instagram post, Young MC expressed his doubts about the nonpartisan nature of the National Mall shows, emphasizing that artists were not made aware of any political ties to the event. He conveyed his desire to perform in Washington, D.C. at an event free of political controversy. Similarly, Morris Day took to Instagram to clarify that "Contrary to rumor, Morris Day & The Time will not be performing at the ‘GREAT AMERICAN STATE FAIR.’"
The scheduled performances included an "I Love the 90s" concert featuring Milli Vanilli and Young MC on June 26, and Morris Day on June 27. Other acts that have been confirmed for the fair are notable names such as the Commodores, Flo Rida, and Martina McBride. However, despite the withdrawal of some performers, Vanilla Ice has confirmed his participation, with a representative stating, "He is proud to help celebrate America’s 250th Anniversary!"
The Great American State Fair aims to foster a celebratory atmosphere for the nation’s birthday, inviting various artists and performers to participate in its festivities. As the event draws closer, the musical lineup may continue to evolve as more artists confirm their participation or withdraw in response to the political implications surrounding the festival.
