MUSICIANS REACT TO NEWS OF FERGUSON GRAND JURY

NEW YORK (AP) _ The announcement that police officer Darren Wilson would not be charged in 18-year-old Michael Brown’s shooting death in Ferguson, Missouri, is having repercussions in the music world. Garth Brooks writes on his Facebook page he called off his appearances in New York yesterday because he felt promoting his projects seemed “distasteful” while civil unrest is happening. He says he will make them up as the networks allow. Beyonce‘ has posted the statement from the Brown family on her website. Macklemore joined a protest in his hometown of Seattle. Pharrell (fah-REL’) Williams tweets he’s “heartbroken” over the news and prays for peace. Katy Perry tweets she’s “praying for an equal America.” Ted Nugent posted a profane message on Facebook that includes, “Don’t let your kids grow up to be thugs who think they can steal, assault and attack cops as a way of life & badge of black (dis)honour.”