Concert is scheduled for this weekend
Lee Greenwood, T Graham Brown and Danielle Peck are the latest artists to drop out of attending the National Rifle Association (NRA) Convention in Houston this weekend. The trio follows Don McLean, Larry Gatlin and Larry Stewart in pulling out of the “Grand Ole Night of Freedom” concert after the mass shooting that killed at least 19 children and two adults in Uvalde, TX on Tuesday (May 24th).
“As a father, I join the rest of America in being absolutely heartbroken by the horrific event that transpired this week in Texas. I was scheduled to perform at NRA’s private event on Saturday with my band. After thoughtful consideration, we have decided to cancel the appearance out of respect for those mourning the loss of those innocent children and teachers in Uvalde,” Greenwood shares in a statement.
“During this Memorial Day Weekend, we should also remember the servicemen and women, and first responders who’ve given their lives to protect our great country. Please join me to pay our respects as we unite together as would be the most appropriate measure at this time.
“With humble regards, Lee Greenwood.”
Each of the artists have cited the massacre as their reasons for no longer appearing. McLean was the first artist to drop out yesterday (Wed, May 25th), followed by Gatlin and Stewart earlier on Thursday (May 26th), and then Greenwood, Brown and Peck by late Thursday evening.
As of this writing, the event is still scheduled from May 27-29 at the George R. Brown Convention Center in Houston, Texas, less than 300 miles away from Uvalde. Jacob Bryant is still currently on the concert bill for Saturday, May 28th, but sources tell Variety they expect to concert to be canceled on Friday.
The event will showcase over 14 acres of the latest guns and gear from the most popular companies in the industry.
As of this writing, former President Donald Trump, Texas Governor Greg Abbott and Texas Senator Ted Cruz are still expected to attend. Texas Senator John Cornyn, who was scheduled to speak at the event, has also canceled an appearance. However, his reps state an “unexpected change” in his schedule as the cause.
