Additional Coverage:
- Kid Rock’s MAGA music festival faced with fresh burn as two more performers drop out (irishstar.com)
More Artists Drop Out of Kid Rock’s “MAGA Music Fest” Amidst Fan Backlash
Nashville, TN – Kid Rock’s highly anticipated “Rock the Country” festival, dubbed the “MAGA Music Fest” by many, is facing a growing wave of artist withdrawals following significant fan backlash. What was intended to be a multi-year celebration of “freedom, music, and the party of the year” leading up to America’s 250th anniversary in 2026, is now seeing its lineup dwindle.
The latest artists to step away from the controversial tour are country singers Morgan Wade and Carter Faith. Wade’s name reportedly vanished from promotional materials on Friday, with her management confirming to Billboard that the “Wilder Days” singer would no longer be performing. Carter Faith also seemingly verified her departure, responding to a fan’s inquiry with a direct, “I’m not anymore!”
These recent dropouts follow the high-profile withdrawal of rapper Ludacris in mid-January. Ludacris’s inclusion on the initial lineup sparked immediate confusion and outrage among his fanbase.
A spokesperson for the rapper attributed his initial appearance to a “mix-up,” telling Rolling Stone, “Lines got crossed, and he wasn’t supposed to be on there.” Fans had been vocal on social media, with comments ranging from “Luda, bro, what are you doing?
I’m so confused,” to calls for him to cancel his contract within 48 hours.
While organizers have not officially branded the festival as a political event, its association with Kid Rock, a known supporter of former President Trump, its country music focus, and patriotic messaging have firmly cemented its “MAGA” reputation.
Even artists who remain on the lineup, such as Jelly Roll, are facing criticism from their supporters. Online comments reveal a mix of disappointment and unsurprised reactions, with one fan on Threads expressing, “Oh man.
Jelly Roll? I’m heartbroken.”
Others questioned why anyone would be surprised by his participation, citing “MAGA vibes” in his music.
Despite the controversies, Kid Rock remains steadfast in his vision for the festival. Earlier this month, he released a statement declaring, “It’s this simple.
Rock The Country isn’t just a music festival; it’s a movement. In 2026, as America celebrates its 250th anniversary, this is a place for hard-working, God-fearing patriots to gather as one and celebrate freedom, music, and the party of the year.”
Nathan Baugh, CEO and partner of Peachtree Entertainment, echoed this sentiment, stating that “Rock The Country was built to honor the communities that don’t always get the spotlight.” Shane Quick, president of Live Events, further emphasized the commitment to “raising the bar across the entire tour with bigger lineups, more intentional fan experiences, and meaningful investments in comfort and production.”
As the festival dates approach, it remains to be seen whether more artists will follow suit and withdraw from the “MAGA Music Fest.”