Singer Hailey Kiyoko claims an ‘undercover cop’ arrived at her Nashville tour stop to warn her of possible legal consequences if she lets drag queens on stage .
Kiyoko, 32, who identifies as a lesbian, performed at Music City’s Marathon Music Works on Monday as part of her “Panorama Tour.”
and Instagram post On Tuesday, the “Girls Like Girls” singer claimed to have invited local drag queens LiberTea and Ivy St James to perform with her. presence of minors.
However, a spokesman for the Metropolitan Police Department told the Post on Thursday, “There is absolutely no reason to believe that she spoke to anyone at our police station.”
The MNPD also said the agency “would never do this in the first place,” noting that a federal judge temporarily blocked Tennessee’s anti-drug laws. before coming into force in March.
The Washington Post has also reached out to Kiyoko’s representative for comment.
“At soundcheck that day, I was advised by local law enforcement that I may face legal action if I perform a drag performance at my all-ages show,” Kiyoko said of the incident. I wrote in the caption about my suspicions.
“This is a mess,” she said in the accompanying video, wiping tears from her face.
Earlier this year, the Tennessee legislature passed a law on “adult cabaret performances.” This currently includes “male or female impersonation”. it says that “It is a crime to engage in adult cabaret performances…where non-adults can see adult cabaret performances.”
first offense would be considered a felonyis punishable by a fine of up to $2,500 and/or imprisonment of up to one year.
Any additional offense would be a felony that could result in six months in prison.
Kiyoko claimed she was “distraught” when the drag performers were told about “cops,” but “they showed no fear and said they wanted to continue the show and go on stage. They did.” .”
She also shared photos and videos of the Queen’s performance.
“We will never be silent. No matter what, we will find a way to remain our authentic selves,” Kiyoko concluded the caption. I love you all so much.”
“About Dumb Time” singer Lizzo, 35, also invited At her concert in Knoxville last month, she dragged the performer onto the stage.
In March, just weeks after Tennessee announced a ban on drag shows near schools, country crooner Maren Morris, 33, called for her to be arrested while speaking at a pro LGBTQ concert. Reported to Tennessee.
Pop icon Madonna, 64, previously announced that she would donate ticket proceeds from her Nashville tour to transgender organizations.
