Viral music sensation Oliver Anthony canceled a concert in Knoxville, Tennesse, after discovering the high prices charged by the music venue.
The "Rich Men North of Richmond" artist apologized to fans after the announcement.
Oliver Anthony cancels show after venue hikes up ticket prices: 'Horses---' https://t.co/QZCEtk1m7C
— Fox News (@FoxNews) September 14, 2023
"I apologize for the price at Cotton Eyed Joe," the musician wrote to his official Facebook page on Tuesday. "Have a friend of mine trying to help me book gigs. I told him I don't want to do anything that's more than $40 a ticket, ideally no more than $25 a piece."
"It's also horses--- that they're charging extra for VIP meet and greet. Those are supposed to be free. I will get this sorted out asap. [Don't] buy any tickets until then," he added in the comments.
Viral "Rich Men North of Richmond" Singer Oliver Anthony Cancels Show Because He Was Going To Make Too Much Money https://t.co/ielrPYauVw pic.twitter.com/yRarbMsIvT
— Barstool Sports (@barstoolsports) September 14, 2023
“We will find another place in Knoxville area that can do $25 ticket and free meet and greet,” Anthony also wrote about the controversy.
”I will work to get your tickets refunded from my own budget if they can’t. This will never happen again. Thanks for your patience. I am still learning how all of this works," he noted.
The venue argued that the increased prices were due to the limited number of people who could be allowed in the venue. At just 1,500 people, the low price would not be profitable for the claimed $120,000 in costs for the performance.
The buzz surrounding Anthony and his newfound fame continues to grow as his viral song has now become part of the national conversation.
His plans for cheap concerts to perform for the American people is a noble one, delighting many of his recent followers eager to watch him live.
The reality of his overnight popularity, however, may lead to some changes as he learns to deal with the tensions of his celebrity status and the changes it brings.
