Advertisement

We need your help now

Support from readers like you keeps The Journal open.

You are visiting us because we have something you value. Independent, unbiased news that tells the truth. Advertising revenue goes some way to support our mission, but this year it has not been enough.

If you've seen value in our reporting, please contribute what you can, so we can continue to produce accurate and meaningful journalism. For everyone who needs it.

tissues and issues

Charlotte Church turns down offer to sing for 'tyrant' Trump

Meanwhile, Rebecca Ferguson has explained why she wanted to sing Strange Fruit at the inauguration.

ch Church (left) and Ferguson PA Wire / PA Images PA Wire / PA Images / PA Images

CHARLOTTE CHURCH HAS taken to Twitter to explain why she won’t be performing at Donald Trump’s inauguration as US President later this month.

The Welsh singer, who was a classical star as a child before branching into pop music, said she turned down an offer to take part in the show because Trump is “a tyrant”.

Meanwhile, X-Factor runner-up Rebecca Ferguson has confirmed she won’t be performing at the inauguration on 20 January either.

Earlier this month, Ferguson said she would perform if she was allowed to sing Billie Holiday’s Strange Fruit – a song about racism and the lynching of African Americans.

In a statement released today, Ferguson said:

“I requested to sing Strange Fruit as I felt it was the only song that would not compromise my artistic integrity and also as somebody who has a lot of love for all people, but has a special empathy as well for African American people and the #blacklivesmatter movement, I wanted to create a moment of pause for people to reflect.

I believe talent is a gift that should be used to heal the wounds of this world and make the world a better place to live in. As music is so powerful, I wanted to try and help educate the people watching of where division and separation can lead to if not corrected. My aim was not to cause contention…

“I’ve a lot of love for the United States. It’s a constant source of inspiration to myself, if not the whole world. I genuinely wish you all well and hope I will still get to sing Strange Fruit for you one day.”

Trump has denied allegations his team are finding it difficult to get acts to perform at his inauguration.

The Rockettes, America’s Got Talent singer Jackie Evancho and the Mormon Tabernacle Choir are among those slated to take part.

Last month, the Rockettes’ owners denied a claim the famous dance troupe was being forced to perform at the event.

Read: Rockettes’ owners deny dancers are being forced to attend Trump inauguration

Read:Jeff Sessions says he’d be a fair Attorney General and defy Trump if necessary

Readers like you are keeping these stories free for everyone...
A mix of advertising and supporting contributions helps keep paywalls away from valuable information like this article. Over 5,000 readers like you have already stepped up and support us with a monthly payment or a once-off donation.

Your Voice
Readers Comments
119
    Submit a report
    Please help us understand how this comment violates our community guidelines.
    Thank you for the feedback
    Your feedback has been sent to our team for review.
    JournalTv
    News in 60 seconds