Artists Withdraw from D.C. Concert Series for America's 250th Anniversary

Several artists have withdrawn from a concert series planned for the 250th anniversary of the United States, shortly after the initial lineup was announced. The Freedom 250 nonprofit, which is organizing the event, revealed the lineup on Wednesday. By the same evening, Morris Day of Morris Day and The Time and Young MC both announced they would not perform. Morris Day stated on Facebook, "It's A No For Me," while Young MC expressed concerns about the event's political associations, stating he was not informed of any political involvement and described the event as politically charged. Milli Vanilli was also listed as a performer, but Jodie Rocco, one of the actual voices behind the duo, confirmed that none of the members were asked to perform. In contrast, Vanilla Ice's management confirmed he will perform at the event. The concert series, named the Great American State Fair, is scheduled to take place from June 25 to July 10 on the National Mall and will feature various artists, including Martina McBride and Flo Rida. Freedom 250 maintains that the initiative is nonpartisan and aims to unite Americans in celebration of the anniversary.