Key facts
- Vanilla Ice is defending his participation in the taxpayer-funded Freedom 250 concerts.
- The concerts are part of America's 250th anniversary celebration.
- Vanilla Ice stated he is proud of his country and will not be pressured to withdraw.
- Several other artists have withdrawn from the Freedom 250 concerts.
- Vanilla Ice previously expressed excitement for the event on Instagram.
Rapper Vanilla Ice, 58, is defending his decision to perform at the taxpayer-funded Freedom 250 concerts, intended to celebrate America's 250th anniversary. In an interview with Martha MacCallum on 'The Story,' Vanilla Ice stated his pride in his country and his refusal to be pressured into withdrawing from the event. He expressed that loving America should not be political and that he is honored to participate in what he described as a 'once in a lifetime event.' He previously shared his excitement on Instagram, promising to 'bring back the 90s' and calling the event an 'epic party' meant to bring people together, not serve as a political platform. However, his participation has drawn criticism, with many deeming it disappointing due to its association with the current administration. Several other performers, including Martina McBride, Bret Michaels, Young MC, the Commodores, and Morris Day, have already withdrawn from the concert. Vanilla Ice reiterated his commitment in an interview with Fox News Digital, emphasizing that once committed, one should not quit.