Garth Brooks Explains Why He’s Not Performing at Donald Trump’s Inauguration

“I’m going to tell you, with this whole presidential thing: We’ve got one going out, pray for him and his family," said Brooks.

Written by Lauren Laffer
Garth Brooks Explains Why He’s Not Performing at Donald Trump’s Inauguration
Garth Brooks; Photo by Michael Loccisano/Getty Images

After initially indicating that he’d be open to the idea of performing at Donald Trump’s upcoming inauguration ceremony this week, Garth Brooks is now explaining why he won’t be on hand for the swearing in of the 45th President of the United States.

During his latest Inside Studio G, a Facebook live chat Brooks hosts every Monday, Brooks responded to a number of questioning fans about his participation in the event. He confirmed that inauguration organizer and casino mogul Steve Wynn had asked him to take part, but when ticket sales indicated that three additional shows in Cincinnati would be booked for his current world tour, Brooks deemed himself unavailable for the history-making event.

While answering questions on his Facebook live, Brooks said, “I’m going to tell you, with this whole presidential thing: We’ve got one going out, pray for him and his family. And for the president going in, pray for him and his family to guide this nation. Let’s stay together. Love, unity, that’s what it’s all about.”

“In the immortal words of Martin Luther King, the most durable thing that we’ve known is love,” he continued. “It will always be that way. Again, can’t thank the Obamas enough for serving this country, and may God hold Trump’s hand in the decisions that he makes in this country’s name as well.”

News initially broke of Brooks’ possible involvement when TMZ approached the singer about his inauguration interest, where he responded “It’s always about serving.”

While Brooks may not be taking part in Trump’s swearing in, several other country stars will be on hand to perform during inauguration day events, including Toby Keith, Lee Greenwood, among others.