The air quality from the Canadian wildfires is no joke. Unfortunately, it caused some problems at Grand Rapids, MI’s Upheaval Festival, which kicked off Friday (July 17). Metal-pop star Poppy was a no-show to her set, due to the air quality. Her band played an instrumental set without her while wearing N95 masks under their regular masks.
It was a difficult situation for everyone. Online, fans seem understanding about her health concerns, but some are upset she didn't post a heads up before the scheduled performance. It was a high-profile slot, on the main stage before headliners Gojira. The fest made no comment before or after, and the performance was not even acknowledged their socials on Friday.
Poppy made a statement after the fact on her Instagram Story, writing, "Due to 'hazardous' AQI reaching 350+ around our set time I was unable to join my band on stage. I was unable to breathe in those conditions. You might've noticed our set was instrumental only. For those who braved the conditions- I applaud you."
The Grand Rapids AQI actually did improve to "moderate" by the time of her evening set, but it was "hazardous" in the morning, and Michigan is experiencing some of the worst effects of the wildfires in the US. There is a statewide alert all weekend, with people advised to avoid going outside, and many outdoor events were canceled across the country. (Thursday saw concert cancelations from Mavis Staples in NYC, the Black Keys in Chicago, and John Mellencamp in Clarkston, MI.) AQI in the Upheaval area is expected to better on Saturday, then potentially "unhealthy for sensitive groups" on Sunday.
Early in the day on Friday, the fest made a statement saying, "Our staff and crew has been amazing this week. Please thank them throughout the weekend! Your safety is our number one concern. We encourage you all to pace yourselves today and look out for each other.
We are still working with our local officials to monitor the ongoing Air Quality situation that is passing through. Current information shows the Air Quality will improve throughout the day."
Following Poppy's band's set, Gojira performed with a drummer named Luigi sitting in for one named Mario (who had visa issues). They don't call it Upheaval for nothing.
