Concerts over the years have become the most hit-or-miss aspect of the 21st century. With new emerging artists, concerts are massive money-makers for them and show stopping entertainment for us. But like all good things, some come to an unexpected halt or maybe stop completely, as the music artists of today are canceling concerts and tours more often than ever. But they should be able to, right? They crash and burn out just as much as the next person…so why the criticism?
Justin Beiber announced on Instagram in 2022 that he was canceling his Justice tour after it got postponed during the pandemic, due to his new health condition, Ramsay Hunt Syndrome.
CBS News said, “After being diagnosed with Ramsay Hunt, Bieber posted a video of himself on Instagram, explaining the condition. One side of his face appeared frozen and only one eye was blinking.”
Beiber said, “Obviously my body is telling me I gotta slow down.”
Upcoming hot new artist Chappell Roan released a similar statement on social media explaining the sudden cancellation of her anticipated concert.
Forbes quotes Roan, “Things have gotten really overwhelming over the past few weeks and I am really feeling it,” adding she wants to be “present when [she performs] and give the best shows possible.” She said she needed a “few days to prioritize [her] health.”
Fans were quick to jump to social media to share their negative thoughts and feelings about the cancellations.
One angry fan says, “Are you joking? You’re not going to address what you’ve done? People travel and pay hundreds to see you and you cancel with two days notice. People were literally on their way from across other countries to come see you. You don’t deserve the fame.”
This anger and resentment is valid, correct? I mean, these artists know what they are getting into in terms of public scrutiny and hate, and yet they still choose to pursue it.
According to XXL, rapper and record producer Chief Keef posted on Instagram, “To my fans, I’m so sorry to announce this, but due to a medical emergency, I’ve been ordered to stay home to recover, so I have to postpone the tour,” the statement read. “Those who bought tickets can opt for a refund or keep it for a future date. I intend to be back on the road soon. Thank you, I love y’all.”
He still faces scrutiny.
All of these thoughts are true, but just like celebrities, regular people go on medical and paternity leave and are absent from work as well. What makes it any different with celebrities?
Celebrities work hard, they make and produce music for us to listen to in our everyday lives. They have jobs and responsibilities just like we do, just with more pressure. They crash and burn out as well and it isn’t fair for us, as needy consumers, to throw hate and be insensitive when they are simply going through the motions like we do.
How would you feel if you got hate for simply being human?