By hitting the stage at this year's Tibetan Freedom Concert, many of music's top performers may forever eliminate their chances of playing in China.|
The Chinese government issued a statement late Wednesday night threatening the artists confirmed for this year's show. The statement, issued to ABC News via the Chinese Embassy in London, read: "Western artists have no right to intervene in the internal affairs of our country. Any of those performers who do will not be permitted entry to China, including Tibet, and their works will never be welcome in our country."
The Milarepa Fund, organizers of the mammoth concert, quickly replied by saying this statement is proof positive that China doesn't respect basic human rights. "It is unfortunate that they find the idea of people exercising their freedom of speech so threatening. We hope that some Chinese government officials will come to the concert so they can witness democracy in action."
Tickets for the concerts go on sale May 2 and will cost $29.50 for one day and $55 for a two-day pass. They can be purchased through an independent Ticketmaster outlet in Washington, D.C., or by calling 1-800-551-SEAT. There is a four-ticket limit. If you can get your hands on even one ticket, the payout is worth it.
If you haven't already heard, this year's lineup includes Beck, Pearl Jam, the Verve, Pulp, Beastie Boys, R.E.M., Radiohead, Luscious Jackson, Tracy Chapman, Blues Traveler, Sean Lennon, Sonic Youth, Patti Smith, Wyclef Jean, A Tribe Called Quest and a host of others.
