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Jay-Z Show Cancelled by Chinese Government

The Chinese government has told Jay-Z "thanks, but no thanks" and cancelled the rapper's upcoming gig in Shanghai, because his "songs contain too much vulgar language," according to KS Productions promoter Sun Yun.

It is decidedly not the first time that the censorship-friendly Chinese government has butted heads with entertainers from the Western world. When The Rolling Stones swept into China earlier this year, the stringent Chinese Cultural Ministry allowed them to take the stage, but only after making sure that five of the band's most risqué songs were stricken from the set. The Black Eyed Peas, on the other hand, sailed free under the radar, "My Humps" and all.

Jay-Z played the part of politician in his response, saying, "I look forward to rescheduling my concert date in Shanghai. This world tour has been a life changing experience and it has only been made better by touching the fans that I am seeing for the first time."

China cannot, however, stop Jay-Z from coming out of retirement. His new album, Kingdom Come, has been confirmed for a November 21st release, and the video for lead single "Show Me What You Got" will drop on October 16th. Kingdom Come will feature appearances by Kanye West, Pharrell Williams and that hip-hop staple, Coldplay's Chris Martin.

--The ARTISTdirect Staff
10.13.06