The Irish rap trio Kneecap is set to headline London’s Wide Awake festival, a performance that will proceed as planned despite a string of recent concert cancellations due to controversy surrounding their previous statements. Notably, a member of the group was captured in historical footage allegedly shouting “up Hamas, up Hezbollah,” while another clip purportedly showed a call for violence against Conservative MPs. These incidents have led to festival organisers cancelling some of their planned gigs, including a high-profile performance at the Eden Project in Cornwall.

Despite these setbacks, Kneecap’s upcoming headline slot at Wide Awake in 2025 showcases their resilience and continued popularity within the live music scene. Scheduled for May 23 at Brockwell Park, the festival promises an eclectic mix of over 70 artists, alongside features like street food and craft beer stalls, reflecting a celebration of independent music and counterculture. Alongside Kneecap, the lineup includes acts such as CMAT, English Teacher, and Daniel Avery.

Kneecap, celebrated for their unique blend of hip-hop and Irish-language lyrics, has made significant waves in the UK music industry. Their recent biopic, which documents their rise and has garnered critical acclaim, has reportedly been shortlisted for an Oscar in the International Feature Film category, underscoring their cultural impact beyond music. The group has seen a successful year with sold-out shows in Dublin and a notable headline tour across the UK.

Interestingly, the band has also taken a stand on political issues, as evidenced by their withdrawal from the 2024 South by Southwest (SXSW) Festival in solidarity with Palestine. Citing the festival's ties to military contractors and the implications of these relationships, they align their performances with their advocacy for political causes. This reflects a broader trend among artists seeking to intertwine their cultural output with political activism.

As they prepare for their headline set at Wide Awake, Kneecap continues to navigate both acclaim and controversy. While the fallout from historical clips and allegations remains a significant discussion point, their dedication to their craft and commitment to addressing pressing social issues resonates deeply with their fan base. Their presence at the 2025 festival not only affirms their status as a leading act but also positions them as a voice on contemporary issues, challenging both political and musical narratives.

With tickets now available, fans are eagerly anticipating a vibrant celebration of music that aims to foster engagement and connectivity among diverse audiences, marking Kneecap’s performance as one of the festival’s key highlights.

Reference Map

Source: Noah Wire Services