According to the Chicago Tribune, some Naperville, Ill., residents are protesting Toby Keith’s upcoming appearance at Ribfest on June 30 because he’s too “polarizing.”
Perhaps Toby needs to put a “boot in your ass,” Napervillians, “courtesy of the Red, White and Blue.”
Here’s the gist of the story: The Exchange Club of Naperville, which hosts Ribfest, announced on Feb. 3 that Toby was slated to perform on the main stage on June 30. However, the mere thought of Toby’s presence at their delicious music festival aroused enough disdain that some Naperville residents began voicing their opposition to the “Who’s Your Daddy” singer on the Exchange Club’s Facebook page.
“In the current political climate, it seemed overtly polarizing and political,” said Naperville resident Amy Kakkuri. “It would have been short-sighted for them to not expect this reaction.”
Undeterred by the unrest, the Exchange Club announced on Facebook on Feb. 7 that Toby would remain on festival lineup: “Ribfest talent is negotiated and selected months in advance of the event. At no time does the Exchange Club of Naperville make any political statement or endorsement. At no time are artists booked based on their political beliefs or actions.”
Toby, who made $47.5 million last year according to Forbes, needs Ribfest like he needs an extra rib. Nevertheless, get ready Naperville, because Toby’s coming on June 30, and he’s bringing red solo cups with him.
Toby Keith by John Russell/CMT
Food dream by Jason Simanek