CANCELLATIONS & COVID: THE LATEST
Here’s the latest in COVID-19’s effect on live shows. Bonnaroo has issued guidelines for entry to the festival; the Pepsi Gulf Coast Jam country music fest in Florida is canceled; Stevie Nicks has delayed her tour until 2022; and Blackberry Smoke squelched a show moments before taking the stage.
Bonnaroo is the latest festival to require proof of vaccination or a negative COVID-19 test result for entry. The last day for a second vaccination shot to qualify is 8/19; non-vaccinated attendees must have tested negative within 72 hours before arrival, and all non-vaccinated attendees must wear masks at all times. COVID-19 rapid antigen testing will be available at Bonnaroo at any medical tent for $40. If someone tests positive on site, they will be given a second (complimentary) test for confirmation.
Nicks has moved the five shows she booked for this year to 2022. “Because singing and performing have been my whole life, my primary goal is to keep healthy so I can continue singing for the next decade or longer," she said. "I’m devastated and I know the fans are disappointed, but we will look towards a brighter 2022.”
Pepsi Gulf Coast Jam, set for 9/3-5 in Panama City, Fla., with Chris Stapleton, Brooks & Dunn and Old Dominion headlining, has been called off for this year. Organizers have announced new dates for the fest, 6/3-5/2022.
Blackberry Smoke was in Jacksonville, Fla., Tuesday, seven dates into its tour, when guitarist Paul Jackson tested positive for COVID-19 and started feeling symptoms. Opening acts Wild Feathers and the Allman Betts Band had already performed, but Blackberry Smoke still called off its performance. Details on the tour are expected shortly.
— Stevie Nicks (@StevieNicks) August 10, 2021
The safety of our patrons and staff is our number one priority. As such a full COVID-19 vaccination or negative COVID-19 test will be required to attend Bonnaroo 2021. pic.twitter.com/KnwCJWaNf4
— Bonnaroo (@Bonnaroo) August 10, 2021
Re: tonight’s show in Jacksonville, FL pic.twitter.com/nJRvfMv6oE
— BLACKBERRY SMOKE (@blackberrysmoke) August 11, 2021
