Barenaked Ladies axe Disney gig

Canadian band Barenaked Ladies have pulled out of performing at a gig next month because of lead singer Steven Page's arrest in New York last week.

He was charged with possessing cocaine, and pleaded not guilty, the band said.

Best known for hits such as One Week and Pinch Me, the group had been due to play the Disney Music Block Party on Long Island.

On the group's website manager Terry McBride said they did not want to put Disney in an "awkward position".

'Strongly contested'

He said: "Members of the band completely support Steven Page.

"But we don't want to put Disney in an awkward position before issues involving Steven's arrest are resolved."

An earlier statement posted on the site said: "Steven has pleaded not guilty to the charges against him and the validity of the charges against Steven will be strongly contested."

The band had said they planned to continue performing and would begin work on their new album later this year.

Known for their clean image and cross-generational appeal, the group recently released an album for children called Snacktime.

RELATED INTERNET LINKS
Barenaked Ladies
Disney Music Block Party
The BBC is not responsible for the content of external internet sites