Rapper Travis Scott is set to go SICKO MODE at the Super Bowl with Maroon 5 after the NFL agreed to make a charitable donation towards social justice.
The Super Bowl Halftime Show roster is now official with Maroon 5 headlining the gig along with Travis Scott and Big Boi joining them as special guests. The NFL made the official announcement on Sunday afternoon after months of speculation.
According to Billboard, the Houston rapper signed on to perform during the halftime show for Super Bowl LIII only after the NFL agreed to join him in donating to a cause for social justice.
A source close to the negotiations confirmed to Billboard that Scott only agreed to perform after the NFL agreed to make a joint donation to an organization aimed at fighting for social justice. The move is a nod to former quarterback Colin Kaepernick, who was allegedly blacklisted from the NFL following his silent protest, Take A Knee that worked to raise awareness on police brutality and social justice issues in America.
Scott made a $500,000 donation in partnership with the NFL to “social justice accelerator” Dream Corps, an organization founded by Van Jones and will work with the NFL on additional initiatives.
“I back anyone who takes a stand for what they believe in,” Scott said in a statement. “I know being an artist that it’s in my power to inspire. So before confirming the Super Bowl Halftime performance, I made sure to partner with the NFL on this important donation. I am proud to support Dream Corps and the work they do that will hopefully inspire and promote change.”
News of Scott’s initial involvement with the halftime show was met with some criticism from actor Michael B. Jordan, Reverend Al Sharpton, Meek Mill, and others who voiced their disapproval due to the NFL’s treatment of Kaepernick.
Several artists reportedly turned down the halftime show gig in support of Kaepernick, including Rihanna, JAY-Z and Cardi B.
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