Kehlani Dropped From Another Show Over Security Concerns

Kehlani’s upcoming show at New York City’s SummerStage has been officially canceled, making it the second major event to drop the R&B singer amid controversy surrounding her political views. Organizers announced the decision on Instagram on Monday, May 5th, stating, “We have been notified by the Mayor’s Office that they have concerns for security and safety issues regarding the June 26th Kehlani concert.” The concert was originally scheduled to be produced by Live Nation in Central Park.

The city’s concerns stem from heightened security demands around that date, which coincides with other Pride events, as well as backlash related to Cornell University’s earlier decision to cancel Kehlani’s performance. A letter obtained by the New York Post from the Adams administration linked the cancellation to “growing security concerns” connected to Kehlani’s recent pro-Palestinian stance, most notably expressed in her “Next 2 U” music video.

The visuals in that video featured support for Palestinian liberation, prompting sharp criticism from some who viewed it as antisemitic. Kehlani, however, pushed back on those claims, stating, “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.”

While reaffirming its support for creative freedom, SummerStage emphasized that safety was the primary reason for calling off the concert. “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 statement read. The organization also clarified that artists’ opinions do not necessarily reflect the views of the festival itself.

Kehlani has not yet commented publicly on SummerStage’s decision to cancel her performance.