After over half the performers originally scheduled for this summer’s Great American State Fair concert withdrew, rapper Vanilla Ice remains committed to the event—a celebration marking America’s 250th birthday. During a CNN appearance, the artist defended his decision to attend, stating: “I’m proud to be an American. I was born and raised here. This is my country, and I don’t like anyone telling me I can’t be proud of it.”

Vanilla Ice emphasized the event’s non-political nature during interviews with CBS News, explaining: “It’s simple as a pimple for me. There’s nothing to it. It’s the birthday of America. Two hundred and fifty years. It’s not anything to do with politics.” He added that he has “never voted in my life” and dismissed claims other artists faced social media backlash over political concerns, saying: “For me, I’m just here to celebrate the country I was born in.”

The concert originally aimed to unite Americans across political lines. However, growing tensions have led many artists to withdraw, with President Trump suggesting a potential replacement—a massive rally instead of the event. As of now, the festival remains active but has lost nearly half its original lineup.

Performers still confirmed include Vanilla Ice, Flo Rida, Fab Morvan (of Milli Vanilli), and C+C Music Factory via Freedom Williams. Artists who canceled are Morris Day and The Time, Young MC, Martina McBride, The Commodores, and Bret Michaels (Poison).