The Trump inauguration grows more farcical by the day, with the news breaking last night that even the Bruce Springsteen tribute band that were due to play have pulled out.
Another big name that had been floated a week or two ago was that of Garth Brooks, although it quickly became apparent that the country superstar would not be performing, either.
However, Brooks has now spoken about his reasons for turning the gig down, and it's a lot less politically-motivated than some of the others' excuses.
In a Facebook video, he explained that the popularity of his current tour meant that extra gigs were added to it, making him unavailable for the inauguration as he will be playing in Cincinnati on the day.
He did give any controversy a wide berth, saying: "I’m going to tell you, with this whole presidential thing: We’ve got one going out, pray for him and his family. And for the president going in, pray for him and his family to guide this nation. Let’s stay together. Love, unity, that’s what it’s all about.
He added: “In the immortal words of Martin Luther King, the most durable thing that we’ve known is love. It will always be that way. Again, can’t thank the Obamas enough for serving this country, and may God hold Trump’s hand in the decisions that he makes in this country’s name as well.”
Watch it below from 14:40 (click to play):
