Six of the nine musical acts scheduled for a summer concert series on Washington DC's National Mall have withdrawn within 24 hours of the lineup announcement, according to The Guardian.
The artists cited undisclosed political ties to the Trump administration as the reason for their departure.
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The Freedom 250 initiative, launched by Donald Trump to organize the United States' 250th-anniversary celebrations, initially promoted the event as nonpartisan.
Morris Day was the first to distance himself, clarifying his involvement directly.
"Rumor," said Morris Day.
Hip-hop artist Young MC posted a statement online informing his representatives and the public that he would not participate.
"I have informed my agents that I will not be performing at the Freedom 250 event," said Young MC.
The rapper explained that organizers failed to disclose the political backing of the anniversary celebration.
"The artists were never told about any political involvement with the event," said Young MC.
The Commodores also issued an official statement confirming their withdrawal.
"The Commodores will not be performing," the group said.
The band emphasized their desire to remain independent from political factions.
"Our music has always been our voice and we choose not to publicly affiliate with any single political party," said The Commodores.
Freedom Williams of C+C Music Factory released a video statement explaining that he was blindsided by the booking.
Long-time friends alerted him to the political nature of the show, referring to it as "doing the Trump Freedom show."
Williams expressed immediate confusion when acquaintances questioned his participation, stating that he does not support Trump.
"I've known for years, who know I don't fuck with Trump," said Freedom Williams.
He confirmed that he investigated the event details independently on Wednesday and directed his representation to cancel the booking.
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"I know where I stand. I know who the fuck I am," said Williams.
Country artist Martina McBride issued a public statement on Thursday to clarify her position.
She announced her withdrawal from the Great American State Fair event scheduled for June 25th.
"I will not be performing at the Great American State Fair on June 25th.
I was presented with an opportunity to perform at a nonpartisan event but that turned out to be misleading," said Martina McBride.
McBride explained that organizers originally described the event as a unified celebration for all 50 states.
"I asked lots of questions and was assured this was a nonpartisan event that was meant to celebrate ALL 50 states," she said.
She noted that discrepancies became apparent just one day after the lineup became public.
"Yesterday things started changing and what we were told is, in fact, not what is happening," said McBride.
Milli Vanilli singer Jodie Rocco reported that her group was never contacted for the event.
"My sister and I were shocked to see our name, 'Milli Vanilli', as one of the performers," said Jodie Rocco.
In contrast, rapper Vanilla Ice confirmed his continued participation via an Instagram video.
"I'm super honored to do this concert with everybody," said Vanilla Ice.
Freedom 250 spokesperson Rachel Reisner defended the organization in a statement to The Guardian.
Reisner maintained that the entity operates as a nonpartisan 501(c)(3) group.
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"Freedom 250 is focused on our signature celebrations and events that honor our history and engage all Americans — welcoming all who share our goal of commemorating this milestone in a way that uplifts and unites America," said Rachel Reisner.
