Band’s Bold Statements Cut from Live Stream

The Northern Irish hip-hop group Kneecap has gained attention for its vocal criticism of Israel’s actions in Gaza during concerts. Their recent performances at the Coachella music festival have sparked controversy, as the band claims that significant portions of their message were omitted from the festival’s official livestream.

Projections and Performances

During their second weekend at Coachella, Kneecap displayed bold projections on stage, which included statements such as: “Israel is committing genocide against the Palestinian people. It is being enabled by the U.S. government who arm and fund Israel despite their war crimes. F— Israel Free Palestine.”

The group indicated that this messaging was also intended for their first weekend performance but noted that it failed to appear on screens during that set as well. Their social media posts highlight a growing concern regarding the visibility of their political statements on prominent platforms.

Comments on Historical Context

During their initial set at the festival, Kneecap led a chant that commemorated the death of former British Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher in 2013, which they reported was also cut from the livestream. They commented on the historical struggles of the Irish people, connecting past persecutions to the current plight of Palestinians: “the Irish are no longer persecuted under the Brits, but we were never bombed under the f— skies with nowhere to go.”

Broader Wave of Support for Palestine

Kneecap was not the only artist at Coachella to express solidarity with Palestine. Notably, the band Green Day adapted their song “Jesus of Suburbia,” incorporating lyrics about the suffering of children in Palestine. Other performers, including Blonde Redhead and Bob Vylan, were seen displaying Palestinian flags, aligning themselves with the cause.

Festival Organizer’s Response

Inquiries directed to Goldenvoice, the promotional company behind Coachella, regarding the omission of Kneecap’s messages went unanswered promptly, leaving questions about possible censorship or editorial control over the livestream.

Industry Perspectives

Music executive Scooter Braun, known for his advocacy on issues related to survivors of the Nova festival massacre in Israel, expressed support for Coachella founder Paul Tollett, underscoring Tollett’s commitment to humanitarian causes.