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Sunday Sound-off: Should Summerfest increase security for the Ludacris show?
 
By Molly Snyder Edler RSS Feed
OnMilwaukee.com Staff Writer

E-mail author | Author bio
More articles by Molly Snyder Edler

Published July 1, 2007 at 5:26 a.m.
Tags: ludacris, rap, hip hop, sunday sound-off

Welcome to the OnMilwaukee.com Sunday Sound-off, featuring a question, two different perspectives -- then opening up the topic to our readers' responses. Please use the Talkback feature below to contribute your thoughts on the issue.

Grammy-award winning rapper and actor Ludacris plays the Marcus Amphitheater tonight. Because of Ludacris' controversial lyrics -- Oprah Winfrey said he "marginalizes women" in his songs -- some think there might be the potential for disorderly behavior as well.

OnMilwaukee.com asked Summerfest if they plan to amp up security measures for the Ludacris show, but did not receive a solid answer.

"Summerfest does not disclose specifics on camera locations and security plans. As always, we will plan to staff appropriately throughout the entire run of the festival at both the Marcus Amphitheater and on all grounds stage areas to provide a safe concert and festival experience for all of our patrons," says John Boler, VP of sales and marketing.

What do you think? Should Summerfest hire extra security for the Ludacris show - or not?

No, it's not necessary. There is no reason to hire extra security for Ludacris, or any other hip hop group, other than fear. Ludacris fans are no different from fans of other Marcus Amphitheater guests and it's unfair to treat them any differently. Don't believe the hype, Milwaukee. Music is music and fans are fans.

Absolutely! Ludacris attracts a rowdy crowd that could potentially get out of hand. If this happened, it would tarnish Summerfest's reputation and prevent people from attending in the future. It's just realistic, not racist, to recognize that more security is needed for a hip hop show.




More Information ...
Henry Maier Festival Park
200 N. Harbor Drive
Milwaukee, WI 53202
(414) 273-3378
http://www.summerfest.com

6 comments about this article.
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Recent Talkbacks ...
Posted by Preview
Jon D. Only if his shows have a history of crowd violence. Otherwise, it should have ...
TandoRSA It's Ludacris to say that he attracts roudy fans. Sure Ophrah said he "marginalizes ...
Wez It is quite pathetic how this show is getting so much attention. News stations ...
mitchgat Wow, another non-issue talkback. I used to enjoy reading the Sunday Sound-off. ...
iwishiweremingus i think this question illustrates a real problem this city has. according to ...


Show me the other Talkback