The Weeknd Scraps Jimmy Kimmel Performance Due to Trump Appearance

The Weeknd and Belly (who frequently collaborates with The Weeknd and co-wrote many of the songs on his previous album) were scheduled to perform their track “Might Not” last night on Jimmy Kimmel Live.

Once the two artists found out they’d be sharing the stage and episode with republican presidential candidate Donald Trump, they decided to scrap the performance and ditch the episode altogether. Belly shared his reasoning:

“I feel like the way I was raised was to be able to see through all the titles in this world — from religion to race,”

“I just didn’t want to feel like I was a part of a celebration for somebody who has beliefs that the majority of us don’t agree with.”

“For me, being Muslim and being somebody that appreciates my access here in America, I love the fact that I’m able to be here. To play my part in this business is a privilege and a beautiful thing. The fact that I could lose that ability through the actions of someone such as Donald Trump isn’t right to me. At all.”

In place of The Weeknd & Belly, the musical guest spot was filled by Jazz vocalist Gregory Porter. You may recognize his name due to 20syl’s remix of “Liquid Stranger.”

STAY IN THE KNOW! FOLLOW US ON SPOTIFY