Even before the amps are powered on at Brockwell Park, there’s been considerable debate about which artists should take the stage.
This is the venue where Irish hip-hop trio Kneecap will perform their first significant show since band member Mo Chara was charged with allegedly displaying a flag supporting the terrorist group Hezbollah during one of their performances.
Prior to this incident, many called for festivals to reassess their bookings of the band due to their political views, and some have indeed done so. This triggered artists like Brian Eno, the Mystery Jets, and CMAT to endorse an open letter condemning Westminster and the British media for attempting to “erase Kneecap from public discourse”.
The letter included a statement asserting that “in a democracy, no political figures… should dictate who performs at music festivals.”
The band has since asserted they are victims of “political policing” aimed at suppressing their perspectives on Gaza.
So, what is the reality for outspoken artists in such a divided world?
At the Ivors, an annual recognition of songwriting in London, Self-Esteem—known as Rebecca Lucy Taylor—shared that the level of scrutiny can be “terrifying”.
‘The Dilemma of the Internet’
She told Sky News: “The issue with the internet is that you can express one thought, which is then analyzed, and it makes you anxious… then you’re warned against speaking out. But I’m like, ‘don’t tell me what to do!’
“You begin to second-guess everything you wish to express… yet every time I do, I think, ‘that’s precisely why you need to say it.’
She expressed frustration that attention often shifts to the opinions of pop stars rather than “the individuals committing the wrongdoings”.
Read more:
Why is Kneecap a topic of controversy?
Self-Esteem, aka Rebecca Lucy Taylor
‘Modern Pop Isn’t Just About Music’
Former Little Mix singer Jade remarked: “Being a pop artist these days transcends music; it’s also about your political stance.”
“I’ve always been open about my views, but that invites an even greater level of scrutiny, constantly evaluating your thoughts as a person…it’s daunting.”
Trinidad-born London artist Berwyn, whose music reflects his challenges with UK immigration, stated: “Suppressing freedom of speech… is a path we should avoid.”
“I’m not a politician; this issue is incredibly complex, but I firmly support everyone’s right to express themselves freely.”
But does this freedom of speech vary depending on one’s viewpoint?
Berwyn speaking to Sky News
‘Concerns Over Unethical Investments’
Soon, a festival called Mighty Hoopla will take place at Brockwell Park, part of a series of six festivals this summer.
Performing artists are facing increased pressure from pro-Palestine advocates to withdraw, given that the festival is owned by Superstruct, which is linked to an American investment firm, KKR.
Critics assert that any events associated with KKR should raise red flags for artists, as campaigners allege it “funnels billions into companies” involved in activities such as “developing Israeli underground data centers,” and owning shares in enterprises that “advertise properties on illegally occupied land in the West Bank.”
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Mighty Hoopla has stated that while it “cannot control investments made by parent companies,” it wishes to express its “clear opposition to KKR’s unethical investments.”
Superstruct, which organizes over 80 festivals globally, expressed horror over the ongoing Gaza crisis, acknowledging the significant debate surrounding its festivals.
They emphasized that their owners, comprising promoters and various investment firms, support them in reaching high standards as “fans and artists rightfully expect.”
They maintain that Superstruct operates independently, with all “revenues and profits… remaining entirely within our business… for the continuous development… of our festivals.”
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Even choosing performance venues can carry political implications for musicians today.
As Tom Gray, a founding member of the rock band Gomez and current chair of the Ivors, articulated: “The substantial commercial interests required to elevate a young artist into the public sphere often compel them to maintain a low profile, which is quite regrettable.
“It’s not merely about artistic expression; personal human expression is foundational to allowing individuals to feel they possess agency.”