Luzerne County cancels Low Cut Connie’s Wilkes-Barre show, citing the desire to avoid politics and propaganda.

Low Cut Connie's Wilkes-Barre Concert Canceled Amid Political Controversy

In a notable development within the local music scene, the Philadelphia-based band Low Cut Connie has announced the cancellation of its upcoming performance scheduled for this Friday in Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania. The cancellation has been cited as stemming from “political reasons,” according to the band’s frontman, Adam Weiner.

Weiner shared the news via a social media video on Monday morning, explaining that the concert, part of the Rockin’ the River concert series, had been deemed too controversial by the event’s organizers. He asserted that they expressed concerns regarding the potential for the performance to alienate attendees and create division due to its political overtones.

Romilda Crocamo, Luzerne County Manager, later confirmed that the concert’s cancellation was in alignment with the county’s objectives to provide a space for enjoyment, community promotion, and a celebration devoid of political narratives. In response to the cancellation, Halfway to Hell: A Tribute to AC/DC has been scheduled to replace Low Cut Connie on the concert lineup, while Aaron Fink & the Fury, who were initially set to open for Low Cut Connie, will remain part of the event.

This incident is not the first time Low Cut Connie has faced challenges related to its political messaging. Earlier this year, the band canceled a planned performance after President Donald Trump’s announcement regarding a takeover of the Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C. The band has also released politically charged music, including the protest song “Livin’ in the USA,” which addresses the distressing impact of ICE raids, a topic Weiner describes as “inhumane and anti-American.”

Following this recent cancellation, Weiner indicated that his booking agent received communication from Visit Luzerne County, revealing that board members expressed apprehension over the potential divisiveness of the concert. It is worth noting that Trump had a strong showing in Luzerne County during the last election, receiving approximately 59% of the votes, further contextualizing the political climate in the region.

Weiner reflected on the implications of the cancellation, suggesting that it speaks to wider societal trends towards authoritarianism, where cultural expressions, including music, are viewed through a political lens. He contrasted the reaction to his band’s inclusive messages with the decision to feature a tribute band, stating that Low Cut Connie’s performances foster unity regardless of political affiliation.

Despite the setback, Low Cut Connie aims to perform at another venue in the Wilkes-Barre area and is scheduled to appear at Concerts Under the Stars in King of Prussia on August 1. Weiner mentioned receiving interest from several locations in northeastern Pennsylvania, demonstrating the band’s ongoing commitment to connect with fans despite the cancellation.

As the national discourse continues to grapple with political divides, the cancellation of Low Cut Connie’s concert serves as a microcosm of the tensions that can arise within communities attempting to balance artistic expression and political ideology. Media News Source will continue to monitor further developments in this ongoing story.