Jason Isbell Pulls Out Of Bristol Rhythm & Roots Reunion Due To Covid Policy

Jason Isbell and the 400 Unit have pulled out of the Bristol Rhythm & Roots Reunion due to the festival’s Covid policy.

The festival organizers have announced that attendees would not be required to show a proof of vaccination or a negative Covid test for entry. However, Isbell had announced last week that he will only play at venues and festivals that have strong Covid regulations.

Isbell tweeted, “We won’t be appearing at the Rhythm and Roots Reunion this year. Y’all be safe!”

Earlier, in a statement, the festival organizers, said, “The Birthplace of Country Music (BCM) has had numerous conversations with our local, regional and state leaders to assess options available to us concerning the requirement by one of our artists for our patrons to either provide proof of COVID-19 vaccination or a negative test within 72 hours of attending the festival. After exploring all options, we have concluded that we cannot impose a vaccine mandate or negative test policy at this time without a state mandate.”

The Bristol Rhythm & Roots Reunion festival is scheduled to take place from September 10th through 12th in Bristol. The festival will feature Tanya Tucker and Blackberry Smoke.

Meanwhile, singer-songwriter Yola also dropped out of playing the Bristol Rhythm & Roots Reunion, citing the festival’s Covid safety protocols.

“We are not satisfied the most stringent Covid safety best practices are currently in place,” read a message on her social media. “Therefore we have made the difficult decision that Yola will no longer be performing at the event.”

(Photo: Alysse Gafkjen)