Jimmie Allen is leaving CMA Fest and suspended from the label over sexual assault allegations
Jimmie Allen was removed from this year’s edition CMAFest Performance lineup after allegations of assault and sexual abuse surfaced on Thursday. A representative from the Country Music Association confirmed his removal from the cast Rolling Stone.
Allen was originally scheduled to play June 11 at Nissan Stadium in Nashville, which also includes Ashley McBryde, Dierks Bentley, Luke Bryan and Tim McGraw. Nissan Stadium is the largest stage during fan-centric CMAFest and a coveted opportunity for a performer to reach thousands of dedicated country fans. CMAFest takes place June 8-11 in Nashville. Performing artists throughout the weekend include Luke Combs, Miranda Lambert, Cody Johnson and Eric Church.
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Allen, who landed hits with songs like “Best Shot” and “Down Home” for his record label Stoney Creek Records, was also suspended from the label after the singer was accused of sexual assault and assault. Stoney Creek is an imprint of BBR Music Group.
“In light of today’s allegations against Jimmie Allen, BBR Music Group has decided to cease all activities with him, effective immediately,” the label said in a statement.
In addition to Stoney Creek Records, the BBR Music Group also includes Broken Bow Records and Wheelhouse Records. Artists under the BBR umbrella include Jason Aldean, Lainey Wilson, Jelly Roll and Dustin Lynch. In 2017, BBR Music Group was bought by BMG.
Allen was also scheduled to deliver the commencement address at Delaware State University on Friday, but has since done so fell out. According to a statement from Delaware State University, officials “were notified by Jimmie Allen, the scheduled keynote speaker for the May 12 bachelor’s ceremony at 8 a.m. that he will not be able to attend the ceremony.” The university respects the decision from Mr. Allen and is grateful that Congresswoman Lisa Blunt Rochester agreed to address the graduates.”
In a story first reported Thursday from diversity, Allen is the subject of a lawsuit brought by plaintiff Jane Doe, Allen’s former day manager, against him and his former management company. The lawsuit alleges Allen suffered physical harm and sexual abuse over a period of 18 months, including chilling allegations that he “privately raped and choked her” and “videotaped multiple sexual encounters to blackmail her into silence.”
In a statement sent to Rolling Stone Allen denied the allegations made by his attorney: “It is deeply disturbing and hurtful that someone whom I count among my closest friends, colleagues and confidants is making allegations that are in no way true.” that we had a sexual relationship – one that lasted almost two years,” he said, questioning his accuser’s motives and calling the allegations “not only false but also extremely damaging”.
Allen previously won the ACM New Artist of the Year award as well as the CMA’s New Artist of the Year award. He also received a Grammy nomination for Best New Artist. His latest album is 2022 Tulip Drive.
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