Though he blessed New York last year with an anthem in “Empire State of Mind,” Jay-Z can’t seem to get the same treatment as some of his fellow artists.
Though Paul McCartney was able to parlay his appearance on the “Late Show with David Letterman” into a show in the middle of rush-hour Midtown, Jay-Z’s plans to do the same were canceled, according to the NY Post.
“There was discussion of a concert, and ultimately it was decided there would be no permit,” said Julianne Cho, spokeswoman for the Mayor’s Office of Film, Theatre and Broadcasting.
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The cancellation of the show after weeks of planning and negotiations, but was canceled because the organizers could not keep the event secret. “Many permits are granted on the condition that the event is not made public beforehand for capacity and security reasons,” added Cho. “This event was made public.”
Organizers, who were required to front $100,000 for the show to cover overtime expenses for officers and other city workers, reportedly paid “significantly higher” than what organizers paid for McCartney’s performance.
The cancellation takes place days after Drake’s show at the South Street Seaport was canceled after 10,000 people showed for the show – triple what was expected.
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Though the crowd grew unruly after waiting 90 minutes for a show, only minor injuries were sustained.
“Late Show” spokesman Tom Keaney declined to comment on the matter. The mayor’s office didn’t return calls for comment.
