Canadian musician Matthew Good has decided to remove his upcoming U.S. tour dates from his summer schedule, citing his opposition to American government policies and political discord. Good, aged 54, made the announcement through a Facebook post, expressing his willingness to jeopardize his U.S. career to take a stand against current issues.
Since assuming office in January, President Donald Trump has made controversial remarks about incorporating Canada as the “51st state,” initiated a trade conflict with Canada and several other countries, enforced policies impacting transgender rights, and ordered extensive deportations of undocumented immigrants.
Originally set to perform in Cleveland, Pittsburgh, and Buffalo before returning to Canada for a show in Gravenhurst, Ontario, Good explained his decision, emphasizing his Canadian pride and expressing concerns about the growing division in the United States.
Good highlighted his reservations about supporting the U.S. economy due to specific contentious issues, including Trump’s tariff threats and the cancellation of Canada’s digital services tax. He criticized the government’s decisions that led to forfeiting significant revenue and the subsequent trade tensions.
Notably, Good isn’t the only Canadian artist to refrain from performing in the U.S. due to political reasons. Other musicians, like Bells Larsen and T. Thomason, have also taken similar stances against U.S. policies that discriminate against transgender individuals.
Despite facing potential backlash, Good received overwhelming support from fans commending his principled stance. While some criticized his political stance, most responses echoed understanding and solidarity with Good’s decision to avoid performing in the U.S. until significant political changes occur.
Good emphasized that substantial political transformations would be necessary for him to reconsider touring the U.S., leaving the possibility open for a return depending on future developments. Fans and supporters have expressed respect for Good’s decision and await his potential return to the American stage.