After over half of artists originally scheduled for this summer’s Great American State Fair concert dropped out, rapper Vanilla ICE — whose real name is Robert Van Winkle — remains committed to performing at the event, a celebration of America’s 250th birthday.
During an appearance on CNN, Vanilla ICE explained his decision when asked why he still plans to attend. “I’m proud to be an American,” he said. “I was born and raised here. This is my country, and I don’t like anyone telling me I can’t be proud of it.”
The rapper emphasized that the concert should not become political. “It’s simple as a pimple for me,” he told CBS News. “There’s nothing to it. It’s the birthday of America.” He added: “Two hundred and fifty years. It’s not anything to do with politics. I don’t know why they’re turning it into politics.”
Vanilla ICE also noted that he has never voted, saying: “For me, I’m just here to celebrate the country I was born in.” When asked if art can be separated from politics, he declared: “Heck yeah. They should never be in there.”
The Great American State Fair was originally intended as a unifying event for Americans of all political affiliations. However, reports indicate that the left has framed the celebration as a purely MAGA gathering.
As a result, President Trump has floated the idea of canceling the concert and replacing it with a rally.
Currently, the lineup has been reduced by half. Performers still committed include Vanilla Ice, Flo Rida, Fab Morvan (of Milli Vanilli) — performing as part of the ’90s-themed show — and C+C Music Factory (via Freedom Williams), who have remained on official lists despite past noncommittal statements. Artists who have withdrawn include Morris Day and The Time, Young MC, Martina McBride, The Commodores, and Bret Michaels (Poison).
