Willie Nelson Walks Off Stage & Cancels Performance In Charlotte

The Outlaw Music Festival stop at PNC Music Pavilion in Charlotte was supposed to conclude with a set from Willie Nelson & Family on Saturday night. However, Nelson took the stage last night on multiple occasions and walked off each time without performing a single note. Those in the crowd waited approximately an hour for Willie to return before they were told Nelson would not perform and that the concert was over as per reports gathered by the Charlotte Observer.

The bizarre scene came after earlier sets from Mitchell Lee, Wild Feathers, Old Crow Medicine Show and Sturgill Simpson. A tweet from promoter Live Nation later in the evening noted, “Due to illness, Willie Nelson was unable to play tonight at the Outlaw Music Festival at PNC Music Pavilion Charlotte. Fans are asked to please hold on to their tickets until the new date is announced.”

Nelson’s rep told TMZ Willie was suffering from a stomach bug and “promises to do a make good for his North Carolina fans.” The 85-year-old musician is expected to perform tonight in Washington D.C.

Video of Willie’s first appearance on Saturday was captured by YouTuber Darren Menius. Nelson waved to the crowd and was about to strap on his guitar when he suddenly departed the stage. Watch the footage below:

Nelson wound up returning and strapped on his instrument this time around. Yet, Willie immediately put the guitar down and threw his hat into the audience. Here’s video of Nelson’s second appearance on Saturday night shared by Michael Keim:

[via Charlotte Observer]