In a move that is definitely two steps forward, three steps back – you know, after hearing that museums will start opening soon, in July – there’s now word that Jay-Z’s Made in America festival with Live Nation, Philly’s Labor Day tradition since 2012, will not be taking place in 2020.
By the way, we don’t even know who was set to play the usually hip hop heavy Made in America 2020. No matter. We go anyway. At least, we were going. Damn C-19.
“2020 is a year like no other,” goes the statement from Roc Nation, Jay-Z’s management company.
“We are in a pivotal time in this nation’s history. Collectively, we are fighting parallel pandemics, COVID-19, systematic racism and police brutality. Now is the time to protect the health of our artists, fans, partners and community as well as focus on our support for organizations and individuals fighting for social justice and equality in our country. Therefore, the Made in America festival will be rescheduled for Labor Day Weekend 2021. We look forward to working alongside the Mayor’s office and returning to the wonderful city of Philadelphia next year.”
Remember Mayor Kenney and Jay-Z went at it several years ago at the behest of Art Museum neighbors unhappy with the noise and the mess of a loud, bothersome live concert festival. When the Mayor’s office suggested moving Made in America, Hova and his peeps threatened to take their ball and go home, nearly leaving Philly without its biggest, internationally regarded live music festival – The Roots Picnic aside. Cooler heads prevailed, and the Parkway remained open and available to Jay-Z (and eventually, a large population of the city’s homeless… But that’s another story).
“Please hold on to your tickets, as they will be valid for next year, and we will be sharing additional information as it becomes available, via our website and social media,” the statement concluded. “If anyone would prefer a refund, an email will be sent to request one. For any further ticket inquiries, please reach out to the point of purchase.”
Hey, maybe we can let the homeless encampment around the Museum at the Benjamin Franklin Parkway stay a while longer.
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