Russian music producer Iosif Prigozhin has warned that cancelling American rapper Kanye West's proposed concert in Saint Petersburg damages the country's international reputation.
Speaking to news outlet Super, Prigozhin addressed reports surrounding the potential cancellation of the event after organizers had already put tickets on sale.
Prigozhin stated that calling off such a performance following ticket sales reflects poorly on Russia's image, even though he personally had no interest in attending the show.
The producer explained that he was fundamentally indifferent as to whether the rapper came to Russia or not. However, he noted that from an image perspective hosting the concert would be positive, adding that having the event go ahead would not make things worse for the country.
Concert announcement and venue dispute
Reports that Kanye West was scheduled to perform in Saint Petersburg in October first surfaced on August 17. The upcoming concert was initially announced on social media accounts belonging to Gazprom Arena.
However, just one week after the announcement, a statement appeared on the venue's social media pages denying that any binding agreement existed with event organizers.
Representatives for Gazprom Arena highlighted that organizers had initiated a promotional campaign and launched ticket sales for Ye's show despite lacking signed contract documents.
Background on the producer and venue
Iosif Prigozhin is a prominent Russian music producer who has worked extensively in the country's commercial music sector for decades.
Kanye West, who legally changed his name to Ye, is an acclaimed American rapper, producer and fashion designer known for his global chart-topping albums.
Gazprom Arena is a major retractable-roof stadium located on Krestovsky Island in Saint Petersburg, serving as one of Russia's primary venues for large sports and entertainment events.
Saint Petersburg is Russia's second-largest city and a major cultural center located in the northwestern part of the country.
