Kenny Chesney postpones May concert in Tampa due to coronavirus

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One of this spring’s biggest Tampa Bay concerts just bit the dust due to coronavirus.

Country superstar Kenny Chesney has postponed the start of his 2020 Chillaxification Tour, including a May 9 stop at Raymond James Stadium, due to the coronavirus pandemic.

“You can’t take risks without really understanding the consequences,” Chesney said in a statement. “In times of uncertainty, I won’t take chances with those I love. I can’t imagine, as much as we love being out there playing for the fans, being able to do that through the worry our nation is experiencing.

“So, while we wait to see how this terrible virus is going to impact our country, I think it’s only fair to move these first several dates now. We are figuring some of this out as we go, but I know people buy airline tickets, book hotel rooms — and I wanted to try to give everyone as much time to sort that out as possible.”

The news affects seven stadium shows and four amphitheater shows on Chesney’s tour. The hope is that within six weeks, Chesney’s team will be able to reschedule those shows for fall, and tickets will still be good. Those who can’t attend the new dates will be able to get refunds.

“Music is medicine when your soul or your heart need healing, but I don’t want my music to put anyone at risk," Chesney said. "So, I promise: we are going to work as quickly as we can to sort out what we can and can’t do in terms of these dates.”

For the latest Tampa Bay concerts and events impacted by coronavirus, click here.

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