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Kneecap Faces Controversy Over Recent Remarks
The rap trio Kneecap has responded to what they describe as a “smear campaign” following backlash over their comments made during a recent performance. This controversy has prompted calls for the cancellation of their upcoming concerts, notably from the Board of Deputies of British Jews, which expressed significant concerns regarding the group’s remarks.
In a statement, the Board emphasized that Kneecap’s comments have alarmed both the Jewish community in the UK and the broader society. Kneecap’s manager, Daniel Lambert, suggested that the uproar represents a form of “moral hysteria,” asserting that the group is being held to a stringent moral compass compared to that expected of politicians.
Lambert asserted that what is occurring is a deliberate effort to “de-platform artists,” inhibiting free expression about complex issues such as Palestine. He emphasized that even in light of cancelled performances, the group remains committed to their message and believes in their stance.
Sharon Osbourne, a well-known media figure, has publicly urged that the band’s US work visas be revoked following their performance at the recent Coachella music festival, where they controversially labeled Israel’s military actions in Gaza as a “US-funded genocide.”
Cancelled Appearances
In the wake of the controversy, several of Kneecap’s scheduled performances have been canceled, including slots at the Hurricane and Southside festivals in Germany. Additionally, a concert at the Eden Project in Cornwall has also been called off, with representatives confirming that ticket purchasers would receive full refunds.
The band is still slated to perform as a supporting act for Fontaines DC in Belfast this August. However, local councilor Jim Rodgers has urged for serious reconsideration of this event, arguing that hosting the group could convey an inappropriate message.
A spokesperson for Belfast City Council highlighted that approval for events is managed via a legal agreement, stating that programming decisions are ultimately at the discretion of the promoters. Any concerns raised by elected officials will be reviewed by the appropriate council committees.
Profile of Kneecap
Kneecap consists of three members who perform under the names Mo Chara, Móglaà Bap, and DJ PróvaÃ. The group, which communicates primarily in Irish, has garnered attention for their provocative lyrics and has been at the center of controversy since their establishment in 2017.
Their rise to fame was further popularized by a semi-fictional film featuring Oscar-nominated actor Michael Fassbender, which recently garnered a BAFTA award.
Addressing Controversial Statements
The controversy intensified last week when a video surfaced from a November 2023 performance, in which a member appeared to make a threatening remark regarding conservative politicians. Following this, the daughter of slain Conservative MP David Amess called for an apology from the group.
The trio responded by stating that their footage had been taken out of context and is being misused to overshadow their messages of support for Palestine. They expressed condolences to the families of public figures affected by violence, while maintaining that they did not intend to incite harm.
Brendan Cox, the husband of murdered MP Jo Cox, remarked that Kneecap’s response lacked sincerity and called for a “real apology,” highlighting the seriousness of the sentiments stirred by their comments.
As it stands, none of Kneecap’s members have faced any legal charges stemming from the controversy.
Source
www.bbc.com