Morgan Wallen’s upcoming concert in Philadelphia has been surrounded by controversy after a video surfaced last year of him using a racial slur. Wallen’s “Dangerous Tour” is scheduled to stop at Wells Fargo Center in South Philadelphia on October 15, 2023. However, some have called for the show to be canceled in light of the video. So will Morgan Wallen’s Philadelphia show still go on as planned? Here is a look at the key questions around Wallen’s scheduled concert in Philadelphia.
What happened with Morgan Wallen and the racial slur video?
In February 2021, a video surfaced of country music singer Morgan Wallen using a racial slur while talking with friends after a night out in Nashville. Wallen was filmed on a neighbor’s doorbell camera saying to his friends, “Take care of this p****-ass n*****.”
The video went viral, sparking major backlash against Wallen. The country music industry swiftly condemned his language, with radio stations pulling his music from rotations and his record label suspending his contract. Other organizations like the Academy of Country Music also disqualified him from awards shows.
Wallen issued an apology and said there were “no excuses” for using the derogatory language. He said he accepted the punishments that were being dealt to him.
What has happened with Morgan Wallen’s career since the video?
Despite the backlash, Morgan Wallen has seen his career recover in the time since the video surfaced. His album sales surged after the controversy, likely fueled by his loyal fan base. Dangerous: The Double Album spent 10 consecutive weeks atop the all-genre Billboard 200 chart, making it one of the best-selling albums of 2021.
Wallen was disqualified from the 2021 ACM Awards, but still managed to win Top Country Artist at the 2021 Billboard Music Awards, where he gave an acceptance speech urging for compassion and understanding.
The country music industry has steadily welcomed Wallen back into the fold. He’s scored Country Airplay chart hits with songs like “Sand In My Boots,” performed on television, and returned as a presenter at the 2022 CMT Music Awards.
So while the video temporarily damaged Wallen’s career, he’s largely rebounded thanks to ongoing support from country fans.
Did Morgan Wallen apologize for the racial slur video?
Yes, Morgan Wallen did issue an apology after the video surfaced in February 2021. Here is a portion of the apology he posted to social media:
“I’m embarrassed and sorry. I used an unacceptable and inappropriate racial slur that I wish I could take back. There are no excuses to use this type of language, ever. I want to sincerely apologize for using the word. I promise to do better.”
In his first interview after the incident aired in July 2021, Wallen told Good Morning America he had donated $500,000 split between several organizations, including the Black Music Action Coalition.
Wallen said he had quit drinking, checked into a rehab facility, and met with leaders from Black organizations to better educate himself. He said he accepted full responsibility for using the slur.
“I was around some of my friends, and we say dumb stuff together,” Wallen said. “In our minds, it’s playful. That’s sounds ignorant but that’s really where it came from. And it’s wrong.”
So while Wallen did apologize and take steps to make amends, his actions have remained controversial in the eyes of many.
What was the reaction to Morgan Wallen’s scheduled Philadelphia concert?
When Morgan Wallen announced his 2023 Dangerous Tour, including a stop in Philadelphia, it elicited mixed reactions. Here is more on how people have responded to Wallen bringing his tour to the City of Brotherly Love:
Support from fans
Many of Morgan Wallen’s fans expressed excitement about his Philadelphia show and scooped up tickets. Wells Fargo Center tweeted that Wallen had sold out his concert shortly after tickets went on sale in August 2022.
The strong ticket sales reflect that Wallen still has a devoted fan following supporting him, despite the backlash to the racial slur video. Many fans defend Wallen and argue the singer has served his time for the mistake.
Criticism and calls to cancel
A number of people and organizations called for Wells Fargo Center to cancel Morgan Wallen’s scheduled concert in Philadelphia in the wake of the racial slur video.
The Philadelphia Chapter of the NAACP and Black Clergy of Philadelphia & Vicinity publicly criticized the Wallen concert. NAACP president Minister Rodney Muhammad said in a statement it was “unfortunate that the artist is being provided a platform to promote his divisive words.”
Additionally, a change.org petition calling for the show’s cancellation received over 1,800 signatures. Critics of Wallen argue it is too soon for him to return to touring and he has not done enough to make amends.
Response from Wells Fargo Center
Wells Fargo Center, the venue hosting Wallen’s Philadelphia show, responded to calls for cancellation by saying the concert would go on as scheduled. The venue cited Wallen’s popularity and fan demand.
“Regardless of opinion on whether Morgan Wallen should perform here – which we understand fully a vocal portion of people may not support – this show was contracted and confirmed prior to the media storm that ensued from his actions last year and not within our control,” the venue’s statement read.
So Wells Fargo Center ultimately decided the economic factors justified allowing Wallen’s show to take place as planned.
Will protesters demonstrate outside the concert?
Given the controversial nature of Morgan Wallen’s Philadelphia concert, some expect there will be protests or demonstrations outside the Wells Fargo Center during the show.
Local activist groups could potentially organize rallies or events to speak out against Wallen performing. However, specifics are unclear and demonstration plans may still be forming leading up to the concert date.
If there are organized protests, they would likely aim to further call attention to Wallen’s use of a racial slur and argue he does not deserve to continue his career unaffected. Police would be on hand as standard procedure to keep potential protests under control.
Is Morgan Wallen’s concert in Philadelphia sold out?
Yes, Morgan Wallen’s upcoming concert in Philadelphia at Wells Fargo Center appears to be sold out.
The venue tweeted on August 12 that Wallen had sold out the show minutes after tickets went on sale. The Metro Philadelphia reported tickets sold out “almost instantly.” Popular ticket resale sites like Vivid Seats and StubHub also no longer have tickets available for the original on-sale prices, indicating it is unlikely seats directly through the box office remain.
Wells Fargo Center has a concert capacity of around 20,000 seats. So despite the backlash against Wallen, it seems his fans jumped at the opportunity to snap up tickets for the Philadelphia stop on his tour. The instant sellout signals Wallen still has a strong fan base willing to pay to see him live.
Barring any unforeseen changes, it appears all tickets available directly through Wells Fargo Center have been purchased for the October 15 Morgan Wallen concert date. Fans unable to get seats for the original prices may still find marked-up tickets available from resellers. But there is no inventory left at the face value pricing.
What are Morgan Wallen’s biggest hits and songs?
Here is an overview of some of Morgan Wallen’s biggest hit songs and singles over his career so far:
“Whiskey Glasses”
Released in 2018, this breakout single helped launch Morgan Wallen’s career as a solo artist. The song topped the Billboard Country Airplay chart. Its popularity led to Wallen scoring New Artist of the Year win at the 2020 ACM Awards.
“Chasin’ You”
The first single off Wallen’s sophomore album Dangerous: The Double Album, “Chasin’ You” became his first Country Airplay #1 hit. It spent two weeks atop the country chart in April 2020.
“More Than My Hometown”
Another single from Dangerous, “More Than My Hometown” also reached #1 on the Country Airplay chart. It became Wallen’s third straight country radio chart-topping hit, cementing him as one of country’s newest stars.
“7 Summers”
Unlike Wallen’s previous #1 hits, this reflective song did not top the country charts but instead became his first single to succeed at pop radio. “7 Summers” reached #6 on the all-genre Hot 100 chart.
“Thought You Should Know”
The debut single from Wallen’s planned third studio album, “Thought You Should Know” showcases Wallen’s ballad singing and songwriting. It demonstrates his continued popularity after the racial slur controversy.
“If I Know Me”
The title track from his 2018 debut album, this song displays Wallen’s traditional country influences and vocal range. It highlights his talent that made him a breakout star.
Song | Release Year | Highest Chart Position |
---|---|---|
“Whiskey Glasses” | 2018 | #1 Billboard Country Airplay |
“Chasin’ You” | 2020 | #1 Billboard Country Airplay |
“More Than My Hometown” | 2020 | #1 Billboard Country Airplay |
“7 Summers” | 2020 | #6 Billboard Hot 100 |
“Thought You Should Know” | 2022 | #37 Billboard Country Airplay (peak) |
“If I Know Me” | 2018 | #2 Billboard Country Airplay |
When and where is Morgan Wallen’s Philadelphia concert?
Morgan Wallen is scheduled to perform at Wells Fargo Center in Philadelphia on Saturday, October 15, 2023.
The Wells Fargo Center is an indoor arena located in South Philadelphia. It is home to sports teams like the Philadelphia Flyers and Philadelphia 76ers.
Wallen’s concert is set to start at around 7:00 PM local time, with doors opening approximately one hour earlier. The show is part of his Dangerous Tour touring larger arenas across America.
Country singer Ernest and rapper Hardy will serve as opening acts for Wallen’s Philadelphia stop. Ernest has opened for Wallen throughout the tour, while Hardy is joining for select dates.
So Philadelphia country music fans who bought tickets can plan to see Morgan Wallen take the Wells Fargo Center stage for a headlining set on the night of October 15, 2023.
Key Morgan Wallen Philadelphia Concert Details
Detail | Information |
---|---|
City | Philadelphia, PA |
Venue | Wells Fargo Center |
Date | Saturday, October 15, 2023 |
Time | Approx. 7:00 PM |
Opening Acts | Ernest, Hardy |
What happened after Morgan Wallen’s racial slur video surfaced?
Morgan Wallen faced immediate backlash and consequences to his country music career after the video surfaced in February 2021 showing him saying a racial slur. Here’s a recap of key events that transpired in the aftermath:
Radio pull
Following the video’s release, radio stations across the country began pulling Morgan Wallen’s music from airplay rotations. Major country stations removed his songs under a toleration zero policy for racist language.
Record deal suspension
Wallen’s label Big Loud Records said they had suspended his recording contract “indefinitely” due to the controversy. Republic Records, who he partners with for distribution, fully supported Big Loud’s decision.
Award show bans
The Academy of Country Music deemed Wallen ineligible for any awards in 2021 due to the incident. The Country Music Association also banned him from attending its annual CMA Awards show.
Streaming service removals
Wallen’s music was temporarily removed from key playlists on Spotify and other streaming platforms before returning. Radio removals had a more lasting impact on his airplay streaming numbers.
Industry condemnation
Top country music organizations and personalities spoke out to condemn Morgan Wallen’s actions, including the Country Music Association, CMT, and country stars like Maren Morris and Jimmy Allen.
Rebounding sales
Ironically, scrutiny over Wallen ultimately boosted his music sales. Dangerous became the top selling album of 2021 despite limited radio play. He still drew touring demand.
So the initial reaction severely impacted Wallen’s career, but his popularity with fans allowed him to recover over time.
Who has spoken out against Morgan Wallen’s concert in Philadelphia?
A number of activists, leaders, and groups in Philadelphia have publicly criticized and opposed Morgan Wallen’s upcoming concert in the city. Here are some of the key voices who have spoken out:
Philadelphia NAACP
The Philadelphia Chapter of the NAACP issued a statement calling for Wells Fargo Center to cancel Morgan Wallen’s show. NAACP president Minister Rodney Muhammad said, “It is unfortunate that the artist is being provided a platform to promote his divisive words.”
Black Clergy of Philadelphia
This organization joined the local NAACP chapter in condemning the Wallen concert. Black Clergy said in a joint statement, “Philadelphia does not tolerate racism or discrimination.”
Power Interfaith
The prominent Pennsylvania interfaith alliance Power added its name to the pushback against Wallen’s tour stop in Philadelphia. The group works on social justice issues.
Enchanted Glori
Activist Enchanted Glori created a change.org petition calling for Wells Fargo Center to cancel the show that garnered over 1,800 signatures. She said Wallen’s words do not reflect Philadelphia’s values.
Malcolm Kenyatta
Pennsylvania state representative Malcolm Kenyatta, who is Black, tweeted criticism of the concert saying, “This is the message Wells Fargo is sending if they move forward with the Morgan Wallen concert.”
So the opposition has largely stemmed from Black leaders and organizations citing Wallen’s use of a racial slur being incompatible with Philadelphia’s culture of diversity and acceptance. They argue it is too soon for him to return to touring.
Conclusion
Morgan Wallen’s upcoming Philadelphia concert has prompted intense debate, highlighting issues of racial injustice and cancel culture. While Wallen has a loyal fanbase ready to see him perform, many believe it is too soon after his racial slur controversy and want the show canceled. Wells Fargo Center maintains the economic factors require it to move forward with the concert as planned. If it takes place, the show will likely draw protest from activists in Philadelphia opposed to providing Wallen a public platform so soon. The situation illustrates how country music still grapples with issues around race, as well as the complicated question of how soon is too soon for a star to return after wrongdoing. Philadelphia will be the latest backdrop for the ongoing Morgan Wallen redemption story to unfold.