The Cookers canceled their New Year's Eve concert amid ongoing artist withdrawals from the Kennedy Center. Concerns over political associations due to Trump's naming of the venue have sparked the cancellations.
Cancellations follow Trump's name addition
The Cookers withdraw from New Year’s Eve concert
Musician expresses opposition to the venue's naming
Previous cancellations occurred in spring
Legal action threatened over musician withdrawals
Congress must approve any name changes
Trump's board authorized the renaming
Jazz supergroup The Cookers canceled their planned New Year’s Eve performance at the Kennedy Center. This decision follows a trend of artists withdrawing from the venue since President Trump’s name was added.
Impact of Political Changes on Performances
The Cookers announced their cancellation on their website, expressing that the choice was made swiftly and acknowledging fan disappointment. They did not directly reference the Trump renaming but emphasized their commitment to unifying music.
One member, saxophonist Billy Harper, criticized the venue’s new name, stating he would not perform there due to its association with racism and the undermining of African American culture.
Artist Concerns and Responses
Trump’s appointees approved the renaming of the Kennedy Center. Harper stated that the board’s decisions contradict his principles and the kind of artistry he supports.
Richard Grenell, who leads the Kennedy Center, implied that recent cancellations were made under the previous leadership. He argued that many artists still wish to perform at the center, regardless of political views.
Legal Implications and Historical Context
The Kennedy Center may pursue legal action against artists like Chuck Redd, who canceled a Christmas performance. Grenell suggested seeking $1 million in damages for what he deemed a political stunt.
The building was established as a memorial to President John F. Kennedy, requiring congressional approval for any name changes, which are currently prohibited.
Sophia Clarke is a senior international journalist with nine years of experience covering global politics, human rights, and international diplomacy.
She earned her M.A. in International Relations and Journalism from the University of Oxford (2016), where she specialized in global governance, conflict reporting, and cross-cultural communication.
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