Ludacris will not be taking the stage at the Rock the Country festival after confusion around the lineup sparked swift backlash from fans.
The multi-city festival, created in collaboration with Kid Rock, announced its 2025 performers earlier this week, listing Ludacris alongside country stars Jason Aldean, Blake Shelton, Miranda Lambert, and rapper Nelly. Almost immediately, fans flooded social media with criticism, questioning Ludacris’ decision to appear at an event they viewed as politically charged.
Ludacris did not respond publicly to the criticism. However, a representative for the festival confirmed to Rolling Stone that he is no longer part of the lineup.
According to Ludacris’ own rep, his name was added in error. “Lines got crossed, and he wasn’t supposed to be on there,” the rep said, calling it a mix up.
Nelly will reportedly still be performing at the event. Nelly has a history with the Trump administration. He first played the first Rock The Country tour in 2024. He then performed at Trump’s inauguration in 2025.