POLITICS

Kneecap's Bold Glastonbury Showdown

Glastonbury, UKSun Jun 29 2025

Belfast rap trio Kneecap took the stage at Glastonbury's West Holts, transforming the event into a political statement.

  • Controversy and Curiosity The crowd, drawn by controversy and curiosity, packed the area, forcing organizers to set up barriers early.

  • Defiant Opening Liam Óg Ó hAnnaidh, known as Mo Chara, opened the show with a defiant statement:

    "Glastonbury, I am a free man!"

  • Political Statements The set was a mix of high-energy electro-rap and political statements. The band led chants of "free, free Palestine" and criticized Israel's actions in Gaza.

  • Solidarity with Palestine Action They showed solidarity with Palestine Action, a protest group facing potential proscription by the UK government.

  • Support from Glastonbury Organizers Sir Michael Eavis and his daughter Emily stood firm, defending their decision to keep Kneecap on the bill.

  • Memorable Performance The crowd, a mix of traditional Glastonbury flags and Palestinian flags, responded with smoke flares and energetic dancing, making it a memorable set.

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questions

    Is the UK government's opposition to Kneecap's performance part of a broader agenda to suppress pro-Palestinian voices in the UK?
    If Kneecap's performance was so controversial, why didn't they just play 'Three Lions' and call it a day?
    What are the ethical implications of a music festival platforming artists with controversial political views?

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