Billboard reports that Travis Scott will perform at Super Bowl LIII’s halftime show after the NFL agrees to donate to social justice.
In December, Maroon 5 announced the “Sicko Mode” star as a halftime guest. A source close to the negotiations told Billboard that Scott required the NFL to pay a joint gift to a social justice organization to proceed with the event.
Scott and the NFL donated $500,000 to Van Jones’ 2014 “social justice accelerator” Dream Corps and will collaborate on other projects.
“I back anyone who takes a stand for what they believe in,” Scott stated. I know as an artist I can inspire. Before booking the Super Bowl Halftime performance, I partnered with the NFL on this crucial donation. I am delighted to support Dream Corps and their mission to inspire and encourage change.”
Scott’s participation in the halftime show at Atlanta’s Mercedes-Benz Stadium on Sunday, Feb. 3 was initially criticized. Michael B. Jordan, Reverend Al Sharpton, and others opposed Scott’s partnership with the NFL after their treatment of Colin Kaepernick.
Rihanna, JAY-Z, and Cardi B, whose collaboration with Maroon 5 is No. 7 on the Billboard Hot 100, have reportedly declined halftime concert offers to support Kaepernick.
Maroon 5 were confirmed for the Super Bowl halftime act in September.