Topline
Funk and soul legends The Commodores have announced they will no longer perform at the upcoming “Great American State Fair.” The group is the third act to withdraw from the event, which is organized as part of the Trump administration’s “Freedom 250” anniversary celebrations.
Cody Orange of The Commodores performs on stage during PNE Summer Nights Concerts at Pacific Coliseum.
Photo by Andrew Chin/Getty Images
Key Facts
In a statement shared across their social media platforms, The Commodores clarified that their decision stems from a desire to avoid “publicly affiliate[ing] with any single political party.”
Their departure marks a significant blow to the event’s musical roster; of the original nine scheduled performers, only six remain on the billing. Young MC and Morris Day and The Time have also withdrawn from the series.
Remaining Lineup and Artist Reactions
According to an updated lineup released by Freedom 250 on Wednesday, the remaining performers include Martina McBride, C+C Music Factory, Vanilla Ice, Milli Vanilli, Flo Rida, and Bret Michaels. Notably, C+C Music Factory revealed via Instagram that they had initially considered withdrawing due to backlash surrounding the event’s association, but ultimately decided to proceed with the performance.
Event Context
The Great American State Fair is a free event, although organizers recommend pre-registration for tickets. The fair is a centerpiece of a broader series of events managed by a Trump-appointed task force commemorating the 250th anniversary of the United States. The Washington, D.C. celebration is slated to feature flyovers, keynote speeches, and a major fireworks display.
Meanwhile, a competing alternative has emerged in the form of the “Power To The People Festival,” announced Thursday by Rage Against the Machine guitarist Tom Morello. Scheduled for October in Maryland, this event features a high-profile lineup including Bruce Springsteen, the Foo Fighters, Dave Matthews, Joan Baez, Serj Tankian, Cypress Hill, and Killer Mike. Tickets for the festival start at $125.
