Madonna Announces Nashville Trans Rights Benefit Concert

Madonna has announced a benefit concert in Nashville later this year, joining the outcry against Tennessee’s new law that criminalizes drag performances in public places and anywhere children are present. Bob the Drag Queen, who’s slated to join the singer throughout her forthcoming Celebration Tour, will accompany her. Benefiting as yet unnamed trans rights organizations, the show happens December 22 at Bridgestone Arena, with the anti-drag law taking effect on April 1.

Madonna shared a brief statement about her decision to add the Nashville stop:

The oppression of the LGBTQ+ is not only unacceptable and inhumane; it’s creating an unsafe environment; it makes America a dangerous place for our most vulnerable citizens, especially trans women of color.  Also, these so-called laws to protect our children are unfounded and pathetic. Anyone with half a brain knows not to fuck with a drag queen. Bob and I will see you from the stage in Nashville where we will celebrate the beauty that is the queer community.

Earlier this month, Brittany Howard, Sheryl Crow, Hayley Williams, Jason Isbell, and more joined forces for Love Rising, a benefit concert that raised money for multiple LGBTQIA+ organizations. Yo La Tengo staged their own protest at The Basement East, with Ira Kaplan donning a dress, wig, and makeup for a set. Madonna’s Celebration Tour through North America and Europe kicks off in July, and Madonna extended the run with a few more dates for late 2023 and early 2024.

Read Pitchfork’s Sunday Review of Madonna’s 2000 album Music.

Madonna: The Celebration Tour