Kid Rock's Rock the Country is a music festival showcasing many country artists. It will take place in seven locations across America between May and September of this year. The event is already courting controversy, however. Several artists who were expected to participate have already pulled out months in advance. Among them are Ludacris and the band Shinedown.
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Most recently, a stop in July in Anderson, South Carolina, had to be scrubbed altogether. That was because "performers withdrew citing concerns over political division....," per Fox News Digital.
An Anderson County Official Voiced Disappointment
Rusty Burns, an administrator for Anderson County, said this in a statement to Fox Carolina.
"Anderson County has been proud to host Rock the Country for the past two years. The event was a huge success drawing tens of thousands of visitors...Of course, we are disappointed that Rock the Country will not return to Anderson this year."
Politics does seem to be at the heart of artists' reluctance to take the stage at Rock the Country. It looks like some felt that the event was too MAGA-oriented (it does not have any expressly-stated political affiliation.) So the organizers decided to address the issue head-on to stop the bad buzz.
Unity Is the Message, Not Division, Organizers Say
Per the outlet via a statement from a Rock the Country rep, "Rock The Country was created to unite people together through music. Our lineups and our crowds reflect that sentiment — a wide range of voices, backgrounds, and stories that make up this country. We're truly disappointed we won't be bringing the show to Anderson. Our fans work hard for their money, and we refuse to put on a show that doesn't meet the standard they deserve."
The statement added, "Our focus remains where it's always been: Supporting our artists, honoring our fans, and delivering unforgettable nights throughout the country. The shows ahead represent the heart of what Rock the Country stands for: music, community, and pride in where we come from. Loving America isn't political; it's who we are."
Plenty of Major Country Music Hitmakers Will Still Be on Hand
Rock the Country still has plans to present a whole bunch of major country stars. They include Nelly, Jon Pardi, Lauren Alaina, Treaty Oak Revival, Brooks & Dunn, Blake Shelton, Chase Matthew, and many more.
