Milli Vanilli and Morris Day have announced they will not perform at “The Great American State Fair” on Washington's National Mall, part of the Freedom 250 celebrations scheduled for June and July. A day after the President Donald Trump-affiliated organization revealed the “first wave” of performers, several acts have publicly declined to appear.
Artists Speak Out
Morris Day and Young MC issued statements on social media disputing Wednesday's announcement from Freedom 250. Milli Vanilli singer Jodie Rocco told The Associated Press that neither she, her sister Linda Rocco, nor any other group members had been asked to perform. “My sister and I were shocked to see our name, ‘Milli Vanilli’, as one of the performers,” Jodie Rocco wrote in an email.
Political Concerns
In an Instagram post, Young MC questioned whether the National Mall shows would be nonpartisan. “The artists were never told about any political involvement with the event,” he wrote, adding that he hoped to “perform in D.C. in the near future at an event that is not so politically charged.” Day posted on Instagram that “Contrary to rumor, Morris Day & The Time will not be performing at the 'GREAT AMERICAN STATE FAIR.’”
Freedom 250 Response
A Freedom 250 spokesperson did not immediately respond Thursday to a request for comment. Freedom 250, which Trump launched late last year, describes itself as a “national, non-partisan organization leading the celebration of our Nation’s 250th birthday.” Trump appointed Keith Krach, who served as an under secretary of state during his first term, as the organization’s CEO.
Background
Trump and his supporters have long had a contentious relationship with the music community; Celine Dion, Elton John, and Guns ’N Roses are among the many artists who have objected to their music being played at Trump rallies. Milli Vanilli and Young MC were to have appeared at an “I Love the 90s” concert on June 26, while Day was listed for June 27. Other performers announced include the Commodores, Flo Rida, and Martina McBride. The Great American State Fair is scheduled to run June 25-July 10.
One Act Remains
At least one “I Love the 90s” act will be there: Vanilla Ice. “He is proud to help celebrate America’s 250th Anniversary!” a representative for the “Ice Ice Baby” rapper wrote in an email to the AP. “Everyone is welcome to attend and celebrate USA’s Birthday and our Freedom!”
