Poppy Says She Was 'Unable to Breathe' at Upheaval Festival
The singer's band performed an instrumental set in respirator masks as air quality reached hazardous levels in Michigan.
“Due to ‘hazardous’ AQI reaching 350+ around our set time I was unable to join my band on stage.”
Singer Poppy was unable to perform at the Upheaval Festival in Grand Rapids, Michigan, on Friday, July 17, after wildfire smoke created hazardous air quality conditions, according to Billboard.
Her band proceeded with the scheduled set without her, delivering an instrumental performance while wearing respirator masks beneath their usual stage gear.
What did Poppy say about the incident?
Poppy addressed her absence on Instagram Stories. "Due to ‘hazardous’ AQI reaching 350+ around our set time I was unable to join my band on stage," she wrote. "I was unable to breathe in those conditions."
She added, "You might’ve noticed our set was instrumental only. For those who braved the conditions — I applaud you."
How did the festival respond?
Organizers had told attendees before doors opened that the event would proceed while officials monitored air quality. "Your safety is our number one concern," the festival said in a pre-event weather update. They encouraged fans to pace themselves and look out for one another, suggesting air quality would improve throughout the day.
Michigan was under a statewide air quality alert on Friday and Saturday due to elevated levels of fine particulate matter from wildfire smoke.
Has this happened to Poppy before?
This interruption marks the second time this festival season that severe conditions have disrupted one of Poppy’s performances. In May, her set at Welcome to Rockville in Daytona Beach, Florida, was cut short less than a minute in after severe weather and lightning protocols were activated.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a hazardous AQI level?
Under the U.S. Air Quality Index, readings above 300 are classified as hazardous, the most severe category. The EPA describes this range as a "health warning of emergency conditions," where everyone is more likely to be affected.
Who performed in Poppy's place at Upheaval Festival?
Poppy's band performed the set without her. They played an instrumental version of their show while wearing respirator masks beneath their usual stage masks.
What other festival was Poppy's set cut short at recently?
Earlier this festival season, Poppy's performance at Welcome to Rockville in Daytona Beach, Florida, was cut short less than a minute in due to severe weather and lightning protocols.
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