Kid Rock-led festival releases statement after artists drop out: ‘Loving America isn’t political’

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Brent Smith (from left), Zach Myers, Eric Bass and Barry Kerch of the band Shinedown arrive at the iHeartRadio Jingle Ball on Dec. 16 at Capital One Arena in Washington, D.C. (Invision/AP)

A festival essentially led by Kid Rock was forced to cancel multiple show dates after a number of artists dropped off the roster.

Festivals organizers have since released a statement regarding these cancellations.

The PRP reports how “Rock The Country” — a patriotic festival that seeks to “share the simple joy of great music and good company” — hit a few of snags in recent days after it was revealed that Creed and Shinedown were no longer a part of the event.

According to PRP, a statement released by Shinedown last week seemed to indicate the band withdrew from “Rock The Country” due to political reasons.

“Shinedown is everyone’s band,” a band statement read. “We feel that we have been given a platform to bring all people together through the power of music and song.

“We have one BOSS and it is everyone in the audience. Our band’s purpose is to unite, not divide. With that in mind, we have made the decision that we will not be playing the ‘Rock The Country Festival.’”

Newsweek adds that Ludacris, Morgan Wade and Carter Faith also dropped out. The festival dates scheduled for July 25 and 26 in Anderson, South Carolina, have since been cancelled.

Festival organizers have since addressed these artist departures as well as the cancelled shows in a statement published to social media on Monday.

“‘Rock The Country’ was created to united the people together through music,” the statement begins. “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.”

“Our focus remains where it’s always been: Supporting our artists, honoring our fans, and delivering unforgettable nights throughout the country,” the statement continues. “The shows ahead represent the heart of what the country stands for: music, community, and pride in where we come from.

“Loving America isn’t political; it’s who we are.”