Jason Isbell Drops Out Of Bristol Rhythm & Roots Reunion After Festival Announces It Will Not Require Attendees To Be Vaccinated

Jason Isbell is sticking to his word.

Isbell announced earlier this month that he would require attendees to be vaccinated or show a negative test at all of his shows, and that if the venue wouldn’t allow it, he wouldn’t play.

He’s already cancelled one show in Houston after the venue could not (or would not, depending on who you ask) implement the guidelines.

And now, Isbell has announced that he will no longer be headlining the Bristol Rhythm & Roots Reunion after the festival announced guidelines that they will not require attendees to present proof of vaccination or a negative COVID test.

In a statement posted on their Facebook page, organizers said that the festival, which is held in downtown Bristol and takes place on public space, cannot implement a vaccine requirement due to state law:

The festival is scheduled to take place September 10-12, and is set to feature Tanya Tucker, Blackberry Smoke, Yola, The Steeldrivers, and many others.

While they’re not mandating attendees be vaccinated or show proof of a negative test, the festival is still encouraging people to get vaccinated and take a COVID test prior to the event, and says that they will make masks available at the festival gates and will provide hand sanitizing stations throughout the event.

Organizers are offering refunds to anyone who decides to cancel now that Isbell has dropped out.

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