Morris Day Denies Plans to Perform at Controversial Freedom 250 Concert Series

Morris Day says he and the Time will not perform at the upcoming “Freedom 250” concert series in Washington, D.C., despite being listed as headliners in promotional materials for the event.

In posts on social media, Day denied reports that the group would appear at the “Great American State Fair,” a 16-day patriotic festival planned for June 25 to July 10 on the National Mall. One post stated, “Morris Day & the Time will not be performing,” while another added, “It’s a No for Me.”

The event has drawn criticism online because some music fans believe it is connected to President Donald Trump and the administration’s plans for the nation’s 250th anniversary celebrations. Organizers insist the festival is nonpartisan.

Other performers announced for the concert series include Vanilla Ice, Flo Rida, Bret Michaels, Martina McBride, Young MC, Milli Vanilli, C+C Music Factory and the Commodores.

Day’s denial prompted strong reactions from fans, with some expressing relief and others questioning why his name appeared on official advertising.

Freedom 250 recently faced criticism over a separate religious event on the National Mall that featured appearances by political and evangelical figures, including Marco Rubio, Mike Johnson and Franklin Graham. Trump delivered a recorded message to that gathering.

Day is still scheduled to perform at Prince’s annual celebration event at Paisley Park in Minneapolis on June 5.