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Ludacris Backs Out of Kid Rock’s “Rock the Country” Festival Amid Fan Uproar
Atlanta, GA – R&B superstar Ludacris has withdrawn from Kid Rock’s upcoming “Rock the Country” music festival, following a wave of negative feedback from fans regarding his initial inclusion on the lineup. The “What’s Your Fantasy” artist’s name, which appeared on the festival’s roster earlier this week alongside Nelly, was removed by Friday.
Nelly, however, remains on the bill. His continued participation has drawn less surprise, given his prior appearance at the inaugural “Rock The Country” tour in 2024 and his performance at President Trump’s 2025 inauguration. Nelly has previously defended his Trump inauguration performance, citing his family’s military background and his respect for the office, stating, “It don’t matter who is in office.”
A spokesperson for Ludacris attributed his initial inclusion to a “mix-up,” telling reporters, “Lines got crossed, and he wasn’t supposed to be on there.”
While the official explanation points to an administrative error, it is widely believed that significant public criticism played a role in Ludacris’s decision to step back. Although the rapper has not personally addressed the “mix-up” on social media, his comment sections have been flooded with strong opinions from supporters.
Under his most recent posts, fans voiced their disappointment and concern. One commenter wrote, “You’re performing in that lamea– maga ‘rock the people’ festival????
Really???? Kid freaking rock is headlining.
So embarrassing, dude. Atlanta is disappointed in you for this.
Thought you were better than that. You’ve lost touch with humanity.”
Another user questioned, “Hey Ludacris, just read you’re performing at NaziFest 2026 with Kid Rock and them. Are you sure???”
Others referenced Nelly, with one user stating, “That festival you a part of is wild my G. Stay on that side from now on w Nelly.”
The “Rock the Country” festival has garnered a reputation for its conservative leanings, with several incidents reinforcing this perception. During the 2024 inaugural tour, performer Gavin Adcock delivered a heated rant against former President Joe Biden. Additionally, former President Trump introduced headliner Kid Rock via video last year, urging attendees to “fight, fight, fight, win, win, win, for the American people.”
This year’s “Rock the Country” tour is still set to feature a diverse lineup of artists, including Blake Shelton, Jelly Roll, Creed, Brooks & Dunn, Riley Green, Miranda Lambert, Hank Williams Jr., Shinedown, Jon Pardi, Ella Langley, Lynyrd Skynyrd, Brantley Gilbert, and Treaty Oak Revival.