Traditionally, the Super Bowl halftime performer meets with the media to promote the event. Maroon 5 canceled this week's press conference rather than face stiff questions about their personal views on police brutality, Colin Kaepernick and taking a knee during the anthem.
A rep released a statement, (quote) “The halftime show is about music. The artists will let their show do the talking as they prepare to take the stage this Sunday.”
The band faces criticism for taking the NFL stage despite the team owners blackballing quarterback Colin Kaepernick. He was the first player to kneel during the national anthem to protest police brutality.
Instead of a press conference, Maroon 5 made a half-million dollar donation to Big Brothers Big Sisters of America .
Travis Scott , who will join Maroon 5 on stage, eased his conscience by donating a half-million to Dream Corps , which is a social justice nonprofit. ( Us Weekly )