Janet Jackson announced Thursday she will no longer perform at the 2025 Cincinnati Music Festival, taking place July 24-26.
She was slated to headline the event on Saturday, along with Earth, Wind & Fire on Friday. In a statement, she apologized to fans, saying personal matters have come up.
Jackson last performed at the CMF in 2022. Festival organizers are working on a replacement.
The three-day event will feature performances at the Andrew J. Brady Center and Paycor Stadium.
"The Cincinnati Music Festival has become a cornerstone of our city's annual entertainment schedule, and we're thrilled to bring this incredible lineup to Paycor Stadium in 2025," Joe Santangelo, the festival's producer, said in a December 2024 release. "Beyond the unforgettable performances, CMF continues to drive significant economic growth, bringing millions of dollars into the region while celebrating music and culture."
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The 2025 lineup currently includes:
- Thursday, July 24, 2025 (Andrew J. Brady Center): A Tribute to Hip Hop Music, artists to be announced
- Friday, July 25 (Paycor Stadium): Earth, Wind & Fire, Anthony Hamilton and three artists to be announced
- Saturday, July 26 (Paycor Stadium): a special tribute to Frankie Beverly, featuring Jubu with special guest appearances by Ronald Isley, Joe, After 7, Dave Hollister and Raheem DeVaughn and three more artists to be announced
Tickets are on sale now.