Kehlani’s SummerStage Show Canceled After Mayor’s Office Flags Safety Risks Over Political Fallout
SummerStage has officially canceled Kehlani’s upcoming New York City concert, marking the second high-profile event to drop the R&B artist amid growing political controversy.
On Monday (May 5), organizers took to Instagram to confirm the cancellation of Kehlani’s June 26 performance, which was set to be produced by Live Nation.
“We have been notified by the Mayor’s Office that they have concerns for security and safety issues regarding the June 26 Kehlani concert,” the statement read. “Those concerns are due to the controversy surrounding Cornell University’s decision to cancel Kehlani’s concert at the University, as well as security demands in Central Park and throughout the City for other Pride events during that same time period.”
According to a letter from the Adams administration obtained by the New York Post, the mayor’s office cited “growing security concerns” tied to Kehlani’s recent pro-Palestinian messaging, which came under fire after the release of her “Next 2 U” music video.
The visuals featured imagery supporting Palestinian liberation, quickly prompting backlash from critics who interpreted her stance as antisemitic—claims the singer has firmly denied.
“I’m not antisemitic or anti-Jew. I’m anti-genocide, anti-actions of the Israeli government, anti-extermination of entire people, anti-bombing of innocent children, men, women. That’s what I’m anti,” Kehlani said in a statement following Cornell’s earlier cancellation of her appearance.
Despite standing by her right to speak out, SummerStage emphasized that public safety ultimately led to the decision to call off the show. “We strongly and emphatically believe in artistic expression of all kinds.
However, the safety and security of our guests and artists is of the utmost importance,” the organization said. “While artists may choose to express their own opinions, their views may not necessarily be representative of the festival.”
Kehlani has not yet publicly addressed the SummerStage decision.
