Woodstock 50 Is Still Happening, But It Has To Book A New Lineup

Just when it was starting to look like Woodstock 50 was gaining its footing again, organizers have found themselves in another predicament. After moving the festival site from upstate new york to Merriweather Post Pavilion in Columbia, Maryland, Billboard reports that organizers released the entire lineup from its performance contract since moving the event 350 miles south of its intended venue is a breach of contract.

A letter sent to talent reps explained that artists were still welcome to play the festival; however, they were no longer legally obligated to do so.

The news came just hours after Jay-Z canceled his performance and John Fogerty pulled out of the event. With Woodstock 50 scheduled to happen August 16-18, it doesn't give artists much time to book alternative shows, nor does it give the festival time to book a new lineup.

“No bands want to look greedy but most can’t play Maryland and don’t want to be involved in an event that is not properly conceived and developed, or risk the health and safety of their fans,” a source who works with a Woodstock 50 headliner told Variety.

This isn't the first problem the anniversary event has faced. This spring, it lost its primary investor. Last month, it lost its original venue. Just weeks ago, it was denied a permit for another New York location. If they can pull it off at this point, it will be a miracle.

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