Plans for Tones and I to perform at this year’s NRL grand final reportedly broke down after the singer refused to commit to performing her hit song, “Dance Monkey.”
According to the Sydney Morning Herald, negotiations for the local songwriter to perform at Accor Stadium on Sunday, October 4th were ongoing; however, the NRL reportedly insisted that the inclusion of the global hit song in the performance was non-negotiable.
Australian Rugby League Commission chairman Peter V’landys confirmed that the NRL had been in talks with Tones And I, but will now put that money towards grassroots rugby league.
“Rather than giving a performer $90,000 a minute, we would prefer to give it to grassroots,” he said.
“We believe that the entertainment is our game. It’s more the media that put themselves into a frenzy who we get as performer. But when you look at it realistically for 11 minutes, it’s not worth it. People will come to the game with or without it. We believe the money is better spent on junior rugby league.”
He continued: “I’d prefer to spend [the money] on getting 2000 or 3000 kids who couldn’t afford to play rugby league be able to play rugby league now. We’ll give it to kids who are underprivileged who can’t afford to play the game with their mates. I think that’s a better use of the money than $90,000 a minute for an artist.”
Rolling Stone AU/NZ has contacted the NRL and Tones And I’s label for comment.
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US star Teddy Swims performed at last year’s NRL final, which was widely praised. Meanwhile, this Saturday, at the AFL grand final, Australian icon Kylie Minogue will headline festivities for the first time ever.
A string of local talent will also perform on the day at the Melbourne Cricket Ground, including G Flip, Michael Paynter and Mike Brady.
