Jay-Z's annual Made In America Festival has been canceled for the second year in a row for unspecified reasons.
The annual outing, which typically takes place in Philadelphia over Labor Day Weekend, has been mysteriously canceled again after the 2023 installment was called off. The news was made public through a vague statement, AP News reports.
"As purveyors of change, the Made In America executive production team is reimagining a live music experience that affirms our love and dedication to music and the work we do. We promise an exciting return to the festival," the statement read.
There were no details or timeline provided regarding the festival's potential return. A lineup of participating artists had also not been announced. With no specific reasoning for the change of events highlighted, representatives for Made In America have referred any questions back to the released statement.
"Since its inception, this groundbreaking festival has celebrated music and community - from creating a space for fans to connect, to uplifting local small businesses and shining a light on important causes. It has strived for accessibility, eliminating barriers through affordable tickets and location," Wednesday's statement said.
In 2023, the festival was abruptly canceled just two months before it was slated to take place. SZA was slated to headline, alongside Lizzo. The cancelation came weeks after a lawsuit was filed regarding Lizzo's toxic workplace environment and alleged sexual harassment.
"This decision has been difficult and has not been made lightly nor without immense deliberation," the organizers shared following the 2023 cancellation. It was stated that it was canceled "due to severe circumstances outside of production control."
Upon the announcement, Philadelphia mayor Jim Kenney stated that he would "look forward to bringing Made in America back and bigger than ever to the Benjamin Franklin Parkway next year." Kenney did not respond to requests for comment after the 2024 announcement.
The festival was founded by Jay-Z over a decade ago. Since its conception, Made In America has featured a wide range of participants for its affordable price point. Prior to the past two years, the event had only been called off in the past due to COVID-19. It was a big return in 2022 with Bad Bunny, Tyler, the Creator, and more.
