Woodstock 50 has been cancelled. On Monday, officials with Dentsu Aegis Network released said that the concert and celebration had been cancelled because they “don’t believe the production of the festival can be executed as an event worthy of the Woodstock Brand name.” Headliners scheduled to appear included The Killers, Dead and Co, Imagine Dragons and Jay-Z. Here is the statement in full:
“It’s a dream for agencies to work with iconic brands and to be associated with meaningful movements. We have a strong history of producing experiences that bring people together around common interests and causes which is why we chose to be a part of the Woodstock 50th Anniversary Festival. But despite our tremendous investment of time, effort and commitment, we don’t believe the production of the festival can be executed as an event worthy of the Woodstock Brand name while also ensuring the health and safety of the artists, partners and attendees.”
As a result and after careful consideration, Dentsu Aegis Network’s Amplifi Live, a partner of Woodstock 50, has decided to cancel the festival. As difficult as it is, we believe this is the most prudent decision for all parties involved.”
Sources tell Billboard that more than $30 million has already been spent including prepayments to artist by by Amplify Live, the investment arm of Dentsu Aegis Network, a multinational media and digital marketing firm headquartered in London and a owned by Japanese company Dentsu.