Less than 24 hours after The Roys Report (TRR) released new testimony from an alleged victim who claims she was raped in 2014 by then-Newsboys crew member Matthew Brewer, Kingdom Bound Ministries announced that it had dropped Newsboys from its July festival lineup.
Editor’s note: This article refers to reports of alleged sexual assault that some readers might find triggering and/or disturbing.
The survivor, who was 23 years old at the time of the alleged abuse, along with other witnesses, told TRR that Tait drugged her and watched the alleged rape take place.
Witnesses also claim that longtime Newsboys tour manager Steve Campbell and others covered up the incident.
That news came on the heels of earlier reports that Tait, who abruptly left Newsboys on Jan. 16, is accused of grooming, sexually assaulting, and drugging young men—including minors.
“We’re honored to announce that Passion Music is joining the Kingdom Bound lineup this summer,” Kingdom Bound posted on Facebook. “They’ll take the stage on Monday, July 28 alongside Anne Wilson, Colton Dixon, and more for a powerful night of worship.”
According to its website, Kingdom Bound Ministries “exists to present the Gospel through a variety of art forms including concerts, outreaches and an annual performing arts festival; to bring people to a saving knowledge of Jesus Christ and to encourage and equip believers in their walk with God.”
The Kingdom Bound festival started in October 1987 and takes place every year at Six Flags Darien Lake in Darien Center, New York.
This year’s lineup includes Anne Wilson, Colton Dixon, Disciple, Skillet, Shama Mrema, Matthew West, Rend Collective, Pillar, We Are Messengers, and others.
“In recent weeks, concerns have come to light regarding allegations surrounding The Newsboys,” the festival’s statement said. “After prayerful reflection and discussion, our team, alongside our Board of Directors, has made the decision to move in a different direction from the band for this year’s festival.”
