> Was Microsoft supposed to cancel the event at the last minute but still pay Sting his full fee that had already been contracted?

No, Microsoft was supposed to time their announcement of large lay off so as it not be days after a private concert for executives because it looks bad and gives a bad impression on the company and not doing that is part of what executives are paid for.

I don’t understand why this site seems so full of apologists every time an article is published rightfully criticising a large American company.

Are you all that loyal to your masters? They are not going to pet you you know.