Filed on July 18, 2019 | Last updated on July 18, 2019 at 08.10 am

Janet Jackson, 50 Cent line up for Saudi concert after Minaj cancels

Minaj was to have headlined the concert, but she cancelled in a show of solidarity for women's rights.

Pop icon Janet Jackson and rapper 50 Cent are among musicians set to perform in Saudi Arabia, organisers said Wednesday (July 17), after rapper Nicki Minaj pulled out.

"WOW WOW WOW @50Cent is going to perform live at Jeddah World Fest!" organisers of the Jeddah Season cultural festival said on Twitter.

"@JanetJackson is confirmed to perform at Jeddah World Fest! We can't wait to see this incredible icon in Jeddah!"

They are to perform alongside British musician Liam Payne and American DJ Steve Aoki as the curtain falls Thursday on the nearly month-long festival in the Red Sea city of western Saudi Arabia.

Minaj was to have headlined the concert, but she cancelled in a show of solidarity for women's rights.

Minaj is well-known for her provocative, profanity-laced lyrics and skin-baring music videos.

The cancellation triggered a fresh social media storm, with many fans in the kingdom voicing disappointment and demanding ticket refunds.

The singer insisted on Twitter that her decision was not intended to "disrespect" the Saudi government.