Marcus King cancels Ottawa CityFolk date citing unforeseen travel issues
The American country-rocker pulled out of his first capital-city appearance, forcing organizers to shuffle the festival's new venue with replacements.
The day's top stories, food & events — every morning at 7. Unsubscribe anytime.
American country-rocker Marcus King has cancelled his first Ottawa appearance at CityFolk, citing unforeseen travel issues.
The 30-year-old was originally set to perform at CityFolk, which has relocated to a new home at RA Centre on 2451 Riverside Drive. The move marks the festival's first year away from Lansdowne Park's Great Lawn, where it ran for a decade. CityFolk organizers quickly filled the gap by moving Australian artist Steph Strings into King's slot and adding Ottawa funk band Blakdenim to the opening-night main stage lineup. Blakdenim will be the first act to perform at the festival's new venue.
King, who pulled out of an Australian tour in spring, said at the time that "sometimes the business side of things just doesn't line up with our desire and need to play for as many of you amazing folks as possible." Byron Bay Bluesfest, which was to be the anchor of that overseas tour, ended this year, making the rest of the international shows unfeasible.
The cancellation sandwiches between two confirmed shows: King played Burlington, Vermont on September 15 and headlines the Telluride Blues and Brews Festival opening night on September 18 in Colorado. King fulfilled two Canadian dates in Vancouver and Toronto earlier this summer.
Fans expressed disappointment on social media, with at least one saying he had purchased CityFolk passes specifically to see King alongside nine friends. Hopes for a future rebook circulated online, though CityFolk organizers confirmed they will not issue refunds due to the festival's multi-artist nature.
The headlining Sex Pistols, touring with singer Frank Carter, are booked to appear on the festival's final night. Alabama Shakes, a U.S. rock band, headline the main stage on September 16, touring behind their album "I Must Be Dreaming," their first in a decade.
Before you go
Where is CityFolk being held this year?
CityFolk has relocated to RA Centre at 2451 Riverside Drive in Ottawa, marking the festival's first year away from Lansdowne Park's Great Lawn.
Who is replacing Marcus King at the festival?
Australian artist Steph Strings has been moved into Marcus King's slot, and Ottawa funk band Blakdenim was added to the opening-night main stage lineup.
Can I get a refund if I bought passes to see Marcus King?
CityFolk organizers will not issue refunds due to the festival's multi-artist nature.
