Atlanta, Georgia, October 16, 2025
News Summary
NBA YoungBoy’s concert, scheduled for October 18 in Atlanta, has been canceled following a controversy regarding an alleged key to the city presented to him. While initially reported that he received the recognition from local officials for his community work, the City of Atlanta clarified that it was not involved in the award. The cancellation of the concert coincided with this controversy, leaving fans seeking refunds for their tickets.
Atlanta, Georgia – NBA YoungBoy’s concert, scheduled for October 18, has been abruptly canceled following a controversy regarding the presentation of an alleged key to the city. NBA YoungBoy, whose real name is Kentrell DeSean Gaulden, performed at the State Farm Arena on October 15 as part of his Make America Slime Again Tour.
Initial reports suggested that NBA YoungBoy was awarded a key to the city during his performance, with the honor purportedly granted by Atlanta State Representative Ingo Willis, Fulton County Commissioner Marvin Arrington, and Fulton County Probate Judge Kenya Johnson. The award was said to recognize YoungBoy for his work on anti-gun violence initiatives in schools and community philanthropy, as well as his influence on rap culture.
However, the City of Atlanta quickly clarified that they were not involved in any presentation of a key to NBA YoungBoy. According to a statement from the Mayor’s Office of Film, Entertainment, and Nightlife, the recognition was made solely by representatives of Fulton County and the State of Georgia. The statement emphasized that the City of Atlanta has not issued a Key to the City for a long time and currently does not provide this commendation. The Mayor’s Office expressed respect for community recognition efforts but disassociated itself from the presented honor.
Interestingly, Ludacris remains the only rapper to have officially received the Key to the City of Atlanta, a distinction awarded to him in 2004.
In tandem with the controversy surrounding the key presentation, the State Farm Arena announced the cancellation of NBA YoungBoy’s concert. The statement regarding the concert cancellation did not provide a specific reason. Refunds will automatically be issued for tickets bought through Ticketmaster. Fans who purchased tickets from third-party sellers will need to contact those sellers for refunds.
NBA YoungBoy is currently on his first-ever headlining tour, which is set to conclude on November 12 in Seattle. His next performance is scheduled to take place in Nashville following the cancellation of the Atlanta concert. Notably, during his recent performance in Atlanta, YoungBoy performed his diss track “I Hate YoungBoy,” which targets fellow Atlanta rappers Lil Baby and Gucci Mane, stirring additional controversy. This incident highlights the ongoing dynamics and tensions within the hip-hop community, alongside YoungBoy’s significant influence in the genre.
Key Event Details
- Concert Date: October 18
- Venue: State Farm Arena, Atlanta, Georgia
- Artist: NBA YoungBoy
- Tour Name: Make America Slime Again Tour
- Tour End Date: November 12 in Seattle
Background Context
NBA YoungBoy, a prominent figure in the rap scene, has garnered attention not only for his music but also for his community initiatives. The key to the city award, although contested, was meant to honor his work against gun violence. However, the City of Atlanta has clarified its stance and disassociated from the award granted by county officials.
Refund Information
- Automatic refunds for tickets purchased through Ticketmaster.
- Contact third-party sellers for tickets bought outside of Ticketmaster.
Upcoming Performances
Following the cancellation in Atlanta, NBA YoungBoy’s next concert will be in Nashville as he continues his first-ever headlining tour.
- What is the location of NBA YoungBoy’s canceled concert? The concert was scheduled at the State Farm Arena in Atlanta, Georgia.
- When was NBA YoungBoy’s concert originally planned? The concert was originally set for October 18.
- Why was NBA YoungBoy’s concert canceled? The announcement regarding the cancellation did not provide a specific reason.
- How can ticket holders get refunds? Automatic refunds will be issued for those who bought tickets through Ticketmaster, while individuals who purchased tickets from third-party sellers need to contact those sellers for refunds.
- Who presented the key to NBA YoungBoy? Initial reports suggested it was presented by Fulton County representatives and Georgia State officials, but the City of Atlanta clarified that they were not involved.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
Author: STAFF HERE ATLANTA WRITER
The ATLANTA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREAtlanta.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Atlanta, Fulton County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as vibrant music festivals like Shaky Knees and Music Midtown, major cultural celebrations including Dragon Con and the Atlanta Film Festival, and iconic sporting events like the Peachtree Road Race. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Metro Atlanta Chamber of Commerce and the Atlanta Convention & Visitors Bureau, plus leading businesses in logistics, beverages, and retail that power the local economy such as Delta Air Lines, The Coca-Cola Company, and The Home Depot. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAugusta.com and HERESavannah.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Georgia's dynamic landscape.
