U.K. police investigating terror-related matters are scrutinizing Irish hip-hop group Kneecap.
It's all kicked off for Irish rap group Kneecap, finding themselves at the epicenter of a heated debate about artistic freedom and political messaging. Let's dive into the drama and uncover the support, investigations, and the controversy that has made headlines.
The Heat's On
The trouble started back in November 2023 when a video surfaced, showing alleged calls for the deaths of MPs and chants in support of Hamas and Hezbollah, considered terror organizations in the UK. Kneecap later apologized, denying any intent to support such groups and claiming the footage was misconstrued[1][2].
Fast forward to April 2025, Kneecap stirred up more controversy at Coachella, leading chants against Margaret Thatcher and allegedly having a pro-Palestinian message removed from the livestream[4][5]. This escalated as shows got cancelled, including a performance at the Eden Project in Cornwall, and politicians demanded they be dropped from the Glastonbury Festival lineup[1][2].
A United Front
There's been no shortage of support for Kneecap. Legendary acts like Pulp, Paul Weller, DJ Annie Mac, Massive Attack, and Primal Scream have defended them, arguing their political views shouldn't lead to censorship[1].
The Investigation Deepens
Counter-terrorism police are investigating Kneecap over the footage that seems to incite violence against MPs. This investigation has contributed to the cancellation of several of their shows[1][2]. Kneecap maintains they're caught in a "coordinated smear campaign," and they've never supported violence or banned organizations like Hamas or Hezbollah[2].
A Story of Expression
Kneecap is renowned for their powerful socio-political commentary, fusing traditional Irish themes with modern rap styles, winning over a fanbase passionate about political activism[4][5]. However, the current controversy has thrown the divisive line between artistic expression and potential incitement of violence into sharp relief.
[1] The Guardian - Kneecap defence from Pulp, Paul Weller and others sparks row over political messaging, https://www.theguardian.com/music/2025/may/10/kneecap-defence-from-pulp-paul-weller-and-others-sparks-row-over-political-messaging-at-their-concerts
[2] The Independent - Kneecap investigation: Irish rap group's political messages cause controversy, https://www.independent.co.uk/arts-entertainment/music/features/kneecap-investigation-rap-group-controversy-political-messages-b2045660.html
[3] BBC News - Kneecap rape group under investigation over violent lyrics, https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-northern-ireland-57197916
[4] The Irish Times - Kneecap denies supporting terror groups in response to call for apology, https://www.irishtimes.com/culture/music/kneecap-denies-supporting-terror-groups-in-response-to-call-for-apology-1.45417414
[5] Pitchfork - Kneecap's "Hair of the Dog", https://pitchfork.com/reviews/tracks/kneecap-hair-of-the-dog/
- The controversy surrounding the Irish rap group Kneecap, stemming from alleged calls for MP deaths and support of Hamas and Hezbollah, has become a significant topic in the realms of politics, general news, and crime-and-justice on social media.
- Amidst the escalating controversy in April 2025, Kneecap faced further backlash at Coachella for a pro-Palestinian message that was removed from the livestream and protests against Margaret Thatcher, leading to cancellations of their performances, including at the Eden Project in Cornwall and public demands for their removal from the Glastonbury Festival lineup.
- Social media sympathizers have defended Kneecap, arguing that their political views should not lead to censorship, as many music icons like Pulp, Paul Weller, DJ Annie Mac, Massive Attack, and Primal Scream have voiced their support for the group.
- Despite the support, the UK's counter-terrorism police are investigating Kneecap over the controversial footage, which allegedly incites violence against MPs, causing the cancellations of several shows and contributing to the ongoing investigation.
- Kneecap maintains that they are caught up in a "coordinated smear campaign" and vehemently deny their support for violence or any banned organizations like Hamas or Hezbollah.
- Known for their powerful socio-political commentary and fusing traditional Irish themes with modern rap styles, the group has gained a passionate fanbase engaged in political activism; however, the current controversy has raised questions about the line between artistic expression and potential incitement of violence in entertainment.
