Fans defend Ludacris amid backlash over so-called ‘MAGA festival’

Rapper Ludacris faced intense backlash from fans earlier this week after his name was spotted in the lineup for this year’s “Rock the Country” festival. Rapper Nelly and country singers, including Rock Child, Jason’s side, Blake SheltonAnd Miranda Lambertwere also named as interpreters.

Some of Ludacris’ biggest fans almost instantly pounced on the “Money Maker” artist, slamming the 48-year-old for agreeing to participate in what some called a conservative event. A few days later, Luda’s name disappeared from the lineup and his manager released a statement, calling the situation a “confusion.”

Following this updated statement, some social media users were quick to defend Ludacris in the face of criticism, saying that while they may not agree with some of the artists included in the event, they don’t see how his inclusion in the festival meant he supported conservative or Republican ideologies.

The Rock the Country Festival is an eight-stop tour that runs from May to September. According to the festival websitethe concert is “more than just a festival, it is a celebration of community, tradition and the spirit that has carried America through 250 years.”

rolling stone reported earlier this week that Ludacris’ name was part of the lineup, alongside fellow rapper Nelly. However, after receiving backlash, Luda’s name was removed from the list and his representative confirmed the change in a recent statement, calling his inclusion a “confusion.”

“The lines were crossed and he wasn’t supposed to be there,” the rep shared.

On social media, users flooded Ludacris’ Instagram comments section with messages critical of his involvement in the “Rock the Country” festival.

“Are you playing in this lame ‘rock the people’ maga festival???” a user wroteaccording to The Shade Room. “Really???? The Freaking Rock Kid is headlining. So embarrassing, man. Atlanta is disappointed in you for this. I thought you were better than that. You’ve lost touch with humanity.”

Another user wrote: “Wow. That downward slide was loud. We all heard it.”

“This really made me sad,” a third user posted. “I would never choose you for a sellout – damn Luda.”

The feedback wasn’t all bad, however, as other fans rushed to defend the “Move B-tch” singer after learning he was no longer part of the lineup.

“Imposing politics on someone is kinda crazy,” one user wrote, while another said, “Remember what Lizzo said. There will be more after Nicki Minaj!”

“No slander against LUDACRIS will ever be tolerated,” another user wrote. “Literally one of the best humans on our planet!”

A third shared: “I’m not a MAGA supporter at all. But where does it say this is a MAGA event? I’m sincerely asking.”

This isn’t the first time a black artist has faced backlash for seemingly aligning themselves with celebrities or conservative ideologies, according to The explosion.

Nelly, who is still scheduled to perform at the “Rock the Country” festival, faced a storm of criticism in early 2025 after it was revealed he would perform at one of President Donald Trump’s inaugural balls.

Users commented on how they were “beyond disgusted” by Nelly’s decision, while others said her actions amounted to “saying fuck you to the black community.”

Nelly, however, hit back, saying her participation in the event had nothing to do with politics. “You didn’t see me saying you should vote for this candidate,” he said. “But I’m honored to be out there performing for the Office, for the President of the United States.”