The Weeknd and the rapper Belly canceled their scheduled performance on Jimmy Kimmel Live Wednesday, May 25, in protest of Donald Trump who was a guest on the show that evening.
Belly, who is Muslim, said that he does not agree with the Republican presidential candidate’s views and released a statement to the Associated Press further explaining why they chose not perform.
"I feel like the way I was raised was to be able to see through all the titles in this world — from religion to race," Belly stated. "I just didn't want to feel like I was a part of a celebration for somebody who has beliefs that majority of us don't agree with.
"I create songs people go to sleep and wake up to, songs that they fall in love to. For me, being Muslim and being somebody that appreciates my access here in America, I love the fact that I'm able to be here. To play my part in this business is a privilege and a beautiful thing. The fact that I could lose that ability through the actions of someone such as Donald Trump isn't right to me. At all."
Singer Gregory Porter replaced The Weeknd and Belly as the night's musical guest.