New reports indicate that Rihanna intended to perform a free concert for protestors in Baltimore earlier this year, however some have suggested the event did not take place because the city's police force blocked her plans.
The Baltimore Sun published interviews this week that indicate that the pop star was looking to play a show in the city on May 1, however could not because she didn't obtain the permit necessary for such a performance. This was the only reason given for the failure for the show to come together, so any suggestion that the Baltimore police department actively worked to prevent the show is strictly speculative, however the vocalist's team had requested "extra police security," a request that ironic, considering the purpose of the concert was to sympathize with people protesting the police department, who have been accused of killing Freddie Gray by way of criminal negligence.
The e-mails indicate that Rihanna "will be arriving by plane and in an effort to divert press/media she will be traveling to the city by train (or car if necessary).
Neither the BPD nor the artist herself have responded to calls for comment on the proposed concert.
Other major performers managed to pull off a similar project however. Prince successfully hosted a concert at Royal Farms Arena in the city on May 10, which went off without a hitch despite being free and having limited tickets available. It was there where he played his new song, "Baltimore," live for the first time. There was no question as to the political motive of his performance...perhaps the fact that his "Rally 4 Peace" show took place nine days after Rihanna's proposed gig suggests that he also took more time to cover his bases.
Stay tuned for updates on the allegations against the Baltimore Police Department with regards to this concert...but don't expect the case to become too involved either.
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