Canadian musician Matthew Good has announced the cancellation of his upcoming U.S. tour dates in response to the policies of President Donald Trump's administration. The decision highlights Good's discontent with the political climate and trade negotiations between the United States and Canada.
In his statement, Good pointed to the recent cancellation of Canada's proposed digital services tax as a significant factor influencing his decision. This tax was intended to target major technology firms that generate substantial revenue through online marketplaces, digital advertising, and the sale of user data. The tax faced opposition from the Trump administration, leading Canada to retract its implementation as a prerequisite for resuming trade discussions.
Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney announced the cancellation just a few weeks ago, stating that it was part of a broader strategy to facilitate ongoing trade conversations with the U.S. Good expressed his frustration on social media, arguing that the decision represents Canada "backing down" to appease the pressures exerted by the Trump government. He believes that this capitulation not only deprives Canada of billions in potential revenue but also undermines the nation's standing on the global stage.
In his post, Good shared his concerns about the potential repercussions of voicing his opposition to Trump, noting his fears of being impeded at the U.S. border or facing visa complications as a result of his political views. This anxiety, he admitted, has previously silenced him, yet he could no longer remain quiet in the face of what he perceives as bullying behavior from the U.S. administration.
“I can’t stand by and be quiet while our amazing country is bullied into walking away from billions in needed revenue,” he stated. Good revealed that he had planned performances in Cleveland, Pittsburgh, and Buffalo shortly, but felt it necessary to cancel these engagements as a form of protest against the government's decisions.
Despite the cancellation, Good encouraged his fans to support the band Texas King, who was set to join him on the tour. He expressed hope that the music community would continue to stand together during these challenging times.
This announcement marks a significant moment for the artist, as it aligns his musical career with his political beliefs, reflecting a trend among artists who increasingly use their platforms to address social and political issues.
