Just a day after the President Donald Trump-backed Freedom 250 organization unveiled the initial roster of performers for “The Great American State Fair” set to take place on Washington’s National Mall this summer, the lineup has suffered several high-profile withdrawals. Artists such as Young MC, Morris Day, the Commodores, and Martina McBride have announced they will no longer be participating in the event scheduled for June and July.
The event’s lineup also still features Milli Vanilli, the 1980s pop duo marred by controversy when it was disclosed that members Rob Pilatus and Fab Morvan lip-synced their performances. The group had initially won a Grammy Award for Best New Artist in 1990, only to have it revoked following the scandal’s revelation. While Pilatus passed away in 1998, Morvan has pursued a solo career and authored a memoir titled “You Know It’s True: The Real Story of Milli Vanilli.”
In a recent interview with The Guardian, Morvan mentioned that he holds the rights to the Milli Vanilli name and confirmed in a statement on Thursday that he plans to perform at the fair. “I am here to entertain and unite people, not divide them,” Morvan stated. “Let’s celebrate life and music and take a trip down memory lane. I feel honored to be a part of this event as it celebrates the 250th Anniversary of America alongside many other talented artists.”
Requests for comments from Freedom 250 went unanswered as of Thursday. The organization, initiated by Trump late last year, brands itself as a “national, non-partisan organization” aiming to lead the celebrations for America’s 250th birthday. Trump appointed Keith Krach, who served as an under secretary of state during his administration, as the CEO of the organization.
“I am here to entertain and unite people, not divide them,” Morvan said. “Let’s celebrate life & music and take a trip down memory lane. I feel honored to be a part of as it will celebrate the 250 Year Anniversary of America with so many other accomplished artists.”
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.
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.
Country singer McBride wrote Thursday on social media that she had agreed to perform after she “was assured this was a nonpartisan event.”
“Yesterday things started changing and what we were told is, in fact, not what is happening,” she said.
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, “Contrary to rumor, Morris Day & The Time will not be performing at the ‘GREAT AMERICAN STATE FAIR.”
McBride was scheduled for June 25. Young MC and Milli Vanilli were among those on the roster for an “I Love the ’90s” concert on June 26. Day was listed for June 27. Other performers announced include Flo Rida and Bret Michaels. The Great American State Fair is scheduled to run June 25-July 10.
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!”
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