By Jay Forte, Contributing Reporter
RIO DE JANEIRO, BRAZIL – Rock in Rio organizers announced yesterday (September 14th) that Lady Gaga will not perform tonight as the headliner for the opening night of the mega-music festival ‘due to sever pain’.
Maroon 5 will replace the performer, and take the stage twice during the festival, on both September 15th, and the originally planned appearance the following night, September 16th.
The 31-year-old Lady Gaga recently revealed she’s suffering with fibromyalgia, a condition that causes intense discomfort all over the body. “I would do anything 4 u but I have to take care of my body right now,” she wrote to fans on Instagram.
To ensure the party rocks on at Cidade do Rock (City of Rock), organizers were quick to announce the band Maroon 5 will replace her, and the line-up on the main Palco Mundo (World Stage) tonight will be Ivete Sangalo, Pet Shop Boys, 5 Seconds of Summer and Maroon 5.
An American expatriate from California, Alex Barwinski, who is managing partner at the Blue Agave in Ipanema shared, “I’m not a huge Lady Gaga fan but she did kill it during the Super Bowl halftime show last year, and I’m sure a lot of fans will be disappointed.”
Adding, “But Maroon 5 is huge, and with ‘Moves like Jagger’ – will rock the festival I’m sure.” Barwinski also points out that Blue Agave located in Ipanema will be showing all the performances televised on their four TV screens for those unable to make the trek to Barra da Tijuca.
Although not required, out of respect for Lady Gaga fans, Rock in Rio will reimburse anyone who decides not to come to the event tonight. For those who bought tickets for September 15th and opt for the refund of the value, visit Rock in Rio’s official page on Monday September 18th.
Only unused tickets will be refunded, fans entering Cidade do Rock on the September 15th will not be eligible for a refund. There will be no cash back at the event box office at any time.