House of Blues Chicago Calls Off Matisyahu Show Due to Security Concerns From Pro Palestine Protest

The Friday night performance at the House of Blues, featuring American Jewish reggae singer and rapper Matisyahu, was called off due to concerns over potential protests.

Just hours before the scheduled event, Live Nation notified ticket holders of the cancellation without providing a specific reason, only mentioning that refunds were being processed.

Matisyahu expressed his disappointment on social media Friday afternoon, stating, "Dear Fans, it deeply saddens me to share this with you. Our sold-out show tonight at the House of Blues Chicago won't be happening due to a threat of protests. The situation remains confusing, with all parties involved blaming each other. However, I assure you, our security team has not reported any threats of violence, and they're always in the know about the situation in every city we visit."

He revealed that despite the event's cancellation, the House of Blues compensated him, and he intends to donate these funds to support the families of hostages held by Hamas, in a gesture made "in honor of International Women's Day" to recognize "the women and girls still held captive by Hamas" and "United Hatzalah of Israel," a volunteer emergency medical service.

Matisyahu emphasized, "This setback won't deter us. The broader implications of yielding to such pressure threaten the very core of artistic freedom, intellectual integrity, and the empathy needed to bridge divides. We remain committed to our performances, opposing hatred, and advocating for peace."

Prior to the cancellation, the U.S. Palestinian Community Network-Chicago and the Chicago Alliance Against Racist and Political Repression announced their intent to protest Matisyahu's concert, criticizing him as a "racist, Zionist musician" and stating he was unwelcome in Chicago.

In their opposition, they argued, "Hosting a musician who has entertained the Israeli Occupation Forces, supported Israel and the AIPAC lobbying organization, and denied the ongoing genocide is unacceptable."

Once the concert was canceled, the planned protest was also called off, with the USPCN claiming victory on social media, highlighting the power of collective action.

Matisyahu has experienced similar issues recently, with last month's concerts in Santa Fe and Tucson being canceled due to venue staff objections. He addressed these incidents on social media, suggesting the cancellations were either due to anti-Semitism or a misunderstanding of his empathetic stance towards both Israelis and Palestinians.

Despite these challenges, protests have not stopped Matisyahu's performances entirely. A show in Minneapolis went ahead despite protests, demonstrating his determination to continue his music and message. He also performed in Milwaukee and has scheduled appearances in Detroit and Cleveland, standing firm against opposition.