Travis Scott’s scheduled performance at the Pyramids of Giza has been canceled, as Live Nation confirmed today (July 26) in a statement via social media. The concert was slated to take place this Friday (July 28), but has been called off due to “complex production issues,” as Live Nation wrote, adding that “despite highest efforts,” the show “could not be constructed in the desert.” Find the full announcement below.

Scott’s Egyptian concert was officially announced earlier this month, however it was met with backlash from Egypt’s Musicians’ Syndicate not long after. According to a report via Agence France-Presse, the syndicate said that it would revoke a permit for the show because it “contradict[s] the identity of the Egyptian culture.”

Around the same time, Live Nation shared a statement with Pitchfork that read: “There have been no changes to Travis Scott’s show in Egypt; any reports to the contrary are false. We can’t wait to celebrate ‘Utopia’ with you in Egypt!” Live Nation did not mention any of the previous backlash in their cancellation announcement.

Earlier this week, Scott announced a new movie called Circus Maximus, which hits theaters this week. The film will include new music that will be featured on his upcoming album Utopia, which he tweeted is coming on Friday.

We regret to inform you that the Utopia show, originally scheduled for July 28th at the Pyramids of Giza in Egypt is cancelled. Unfortunately, despite highest efforts, complex production issues meant that the show could not be constructed in the desert.

We understand that this news is disappointing and not the outcome any of us desired.

Refunds will be issued to all ticket holders at their point of purchase. We sincerely apologize for any inconvenience this cancellation may have caused and appreciate your understanding. We remain committed to bringing exceptional live performances to fans and hope to have the opportunity to do so in the future.

https://pitchfork.com/news/travis-scotts-egyptian-pyramids-concert-canceled-due-to-complex-production-issues