R. Kelly Blames Promoters For No-Show

Kelly was scheduled to take the stage April 25 during the fest at Veterans Memorial Park in Tolleson, but said the show’s promoters, the Northwest Black History Committee, failed to pay him.

In a message on Facebook, Kelly wrote that even though he was onsite in his trailer at the festival and ready to perform, he wouldn’t be taking the stage after all. “I just got bad news that my management never told me, that they did not give me my money. I haven’t gotten no money for doing this show,” Kelly wrote. “They told me they had the money, so when I got here, the money wasn’t here. So it’s nothing personal against my fans. This is business, y’all. And I hope y’all understand.”

He added that when the committee could get the money together, he would return to Arizona to perform. It’s unclear whether SoulFest AZ will ever have him back, however, as the festival appeared to have a different perspective on what kept Kelly from playing the show.

“The UNTRUE rumors surrounding the event and expressed by the Artist will be addressed in a legal setting,” SoulFest responded on Facebook. “There is no question that everyone requesting a refund WILL receive one, and we are working diligently to make this happen as quickly as possible. “If you did not leave your information with us at the event, please send a direct message here or email us at [email protected]. Your patience is greatly appreciated, and we just ask that you give us a chance to honor our word and your requests.”