The Woodstock 50th anniversary festival has been called off, Billboard reports. The revived festival—which was scheduled take place from August 16-18 in Watkins Glen, New York—made headlines when payments to participating artists were delayed by a few days. In addition, ticket sales were delayed (and never occurred) because organizers did not have a necessary mass gathering permit.

Tim O’Hearn, the administrator for Schuyler County, New York, confirmed Woodstock 50’s cancelation to NPR. Dentsu Aegis Network, which has funded Woodstock 50, shared the following statement with Billboard:

It’s a dream for agencies to work with iconic brands and to be associated with meaningful movements. We have a strong history of producing experiences that bring people together around common interests and causes which is why we chose to be a part of the Woodstock 50th Anniversary Festival. But despite our tremendous investment of time, effort and commitment, we don’t believe the production of the festival can be executed as an event worthy of the Woodstock Brand name while also ensuring the health and safety of the artists, partners and attendees. As a result and after careful consideration, Dentsu Aegis Network’s Amplifi Live, a partner of Woodstock 50, has decided to cancel the festival. As difficult as it is, we believe this is the most prudent decision for all parties involved.

Woodstock 50, however, shared the following statement with Vulture and the local Poughkeepsie Journal: “Woodstock 50 is currently on a call with Dentsu and Woodstock 50 vehemently denies the cancellation of the festival and will be seeking legal remedy to the comments.” Pitchfork has contacted representatives for Woodstock 50, festival, co-organizer and co-creator Michael Lang, and Dentsu Aegis Network.

The lineup for Woodstock 50 was set to include JAY-Z, Chance the Rapper, the Killers, Miley Cyrus, and many others. Shortly after the lineup was announced, the Black Keys canceled their set “due to a scheduling conflict.”

Read “Coachella Was Our Woodstock” on the Pitch.

https://pitchfork.com/news/woodstock-50-anniversary-festival-canceled