Twista Dropped From McDonald’s Tour

Chicago rapper Twista has been dropped from the McDonald’s live 10-city tour because of his lyrical content, the fast food chain announced Saturday after he was named in a local community billboard campaign.

“Although we respect free speech and artistic expression, we do not condone or perpetuate derogatory language,” McDonald’s said in a statement.

The Rev. Michael Pfleger, pastor of St. Sabina Catholic Church, which launched the billboard campaign, applauded McDonald’s decision to cut Twista from its brand.

“They have to make wise decisions about the image they’re going to use to reach young people and they have to be corporately responsible. If they’re going to use entertainers who promote violence and demean women, that’s irresponsible behavior,” he said. “I hope other industries and corporations will take note and do the same.”

Twista artist was to perform Aug. 7 in his hometown, and now the company is seeking another artist to perfrom his planned show. The free tour will be held in McDonald’s parking lots across the U.S. and features Ne-Yo, Kenna, Kat DeLuna, the Dey, Single File and Kevin Michael.