The annual concert and fireworks show usually draws about half a million people to the Esplanade.
Country singer Martina McBride performs at the MassMutual Center in Springfield in 2006. She will be replacing Lionel Ritchie as a featured performer at the Boston Pops Fourth of July concert on the Esplanade Monday.BOSTON – A change in the musical lineup for the July 4 festivities on the Charles River Esplanade in Boston.
Singer Lionel Richie has canceled his appearance with the Boston Pops and will be replaced by country music star Martina McBride.
Boston radio station WBZ-AM reported that Richie released a statement on Friday saying he has strained vocal chords and has been told by his doctors not to perform.
The annual July 4 Pops concert and fireworks spectacular usually draws about half a million people to the Esplanade.