At a Glance
- Kennedy Center renamed to include President Donald Trump’s name, sparking artist walkouts.
- Jazz band The Cookers, folk singer Kristy Lee, and others canceled shows, citing political pressure.
- The board’s vote and Trump’s takeover have drawn criticism from lawmakers and the Kennedy family.
- Why it matters: Musicians are using cancellations to protest politicization of a public arts venue, raising questions about artistic freedom and institutional integrity.
On a day that should have celebrated the arts, the Kennedy Center’s decision to add President Donald Trump’s name to its building sparked a wave of cancellations from musicians who fear the politicization of a public cultural landmark.
Artist Cancellations
Several performers announced they would not perform, citing the center’s new name and the political climate it represents.
- The Cookers – Wednesday night
- Kristy Lee – Jan. 14
- Chuck Redd – Christmas Eve
- Other artists, including the musical “Hamilton” and Issa Rae, have also pulled shows.
Board Vote and Renaming
The board voted to rename the center this month. The next day, Trump’s name was affixed to the facade, prompting criticism from lawmakers and the Kennedy family.
Reactions and Legal Threats
The Cookers statement:
> “Jazz was born from struggle and from a relentless insistence on freedom: freedom of thought, of expression, and of the full human voice. Some of us have been making this music for many decades, and that history still shapes us. Our hope is that this moment will leave space for reflection, not resentment.”
Kristy Lee Instagram post:
> “but losing my integrity would cost me more than any paycheck.”
> “When American history starts getting treated like something you can ban, erase, rename, or rebrand for somebody else’s ego, I can’t stand on that stage and sleep right at night.”
> “This decision is not directed at the Center’s dedicated staff, artists, or patrons, whose work and commitment to the arts remain deeply respected. Rather, it is a statement in defense of the Center’s founding purpose and the ethical responsibility shared by artists who grace its stage.”
Chuck Redd to News Of Fort Worth:
> “I am canceling the concert as a result of the name change.”
Richard Grenell, center president:
> “political stunt.”
Roma Daravi, spokesperson:
> “Any artist cancelling their show at the Trump Kennedy Center over political differences isn’t courageous or principled-they are selfish, intolerant, and have failed to meet the basic duty of a public artist: to perform for all people.”
Key Takeaways
- The Kennedy Center’s renaming has triggered a wave of artist walkouts.
- Musicians cite political pressure and integrity concerns as reasons for canceling.
- The center’s leadership has threatened legal action and criticized the cancellations.
The cancellations underscore a broader debate over the politicization of public arts spaces and the role of artists in defending institutional integrity.
