Chicago – May 29, 2026
A majority of performers announced for President Donald Trump’s Freedom 250 concert series have dropped out within 48 hours of the lineup reveal, citing concerns over the event’s political ties.
Artists including Morris Day of The Time, rapper Young MC, the Commodores, country singer Martina McBride, and Poison frontman Bret Michaels all publicly confirmed they will not perform at “The Great American State Fair” on Washington’s National Mall. Young MC stated on Facebook, “I have informed my agents that I will not be performing at the Freedom 250 event”.
Most withdrawals stem from artists claiming they were misled about the concert’s nonpartisan nature. Many expressed unwelcome association with Trump’s administration and fear of political backlash. Bret Michaels cited “a worsening environment surrounding the event and threats that have been made”.
Freedom 250, launched by Trump to celebrate America’s 250th anniversary, maintains the event is nonpartisan. Still, four of nine announced featured acts have already backed out. Vanilla Ice, Flo Rida, and Milli Vanilli’s Fab Morvan remain confirmed performers. The concerts are scheduled for June and July.
