After several artists drop out of Freedom 250 concerts, Vanilla Ice says he’d “play for anybody” including Putin and Iran Rapper Vanilla Ice, real name Robert Van Winkle, confirmed he will still perform at a Washington D.C. concert series organized by Freedom 250, despite several other artists withdrawing. Van Winkle stated his decision is solely about celebrating America’s birthday and is not political, as he has “never voted in my life.” He expressed that he is an entertainer who plays for fans and would perform for anyone, including Vladimir Putin or in Iran, as art and politics should remain separate.

• Vanilla Ice (Robert Van Winkle) will perform at the Freedom 250 concert series in Washington D.C.
• Several other artists, including Morris Day and the Time, Young MC, The Commadores, Bret Michaels, and Martina McBride, have withdrawn from the event.
• Artists cited being misled about the organizers and the event’s perceived political ties, with SPIN magazine describing it as Trump-backed.
• Freedom 250, launched following a Trump executive order, maintains its events are nonpartisan and dedicated to celebrating America’s 250th anniversary.
• Van Winkle stated his participation is apolitical, focused on celebrating the country, and expressed willingness to perform for any audience, including controversial figures.
• The Great American State Fair, organized by Freedom 250, is scheduled to run from June 25 to July 10 on the National Mall.