Bob Vylan’s Glastonbury Set Under Investigation While Kneecap Inquiry Dropped

Police continue probing Bob Vylan’s Glastonbury performance, but Kneecap investigation closed due to lack of evidence.

Ongoing Police Probe Into Bob Vylan's Glastonbury Performance

Police investigations into performances at Glastonbury Festival have taken a turn, with the latest updates revealing that while the inquiry into Irish rap duo Kneecap has been dropped, authorities still continue to investigate British punk duo Bob Vylan’s set.

Back in June, police began looking into the performances of both Kneecap and Bob Vylan at Glastonbury to determine if any offenses had been committed on stage. Recently, Avon and Somerset Police confirmed that they have closed the Kneecap investigation, citing “insufficient evidence to provide a realistic prospect of conviction for any offence.”

However, the police statement clarified that “enquiries continue to be carried out in relation to separate comments made on stage during Bob Vylan’s performance.”

What Happened During Bob Vylan’s Controversial Set?

Bob Vylan’s appearance on the West Holts Stage at Worthy Farm became notable for its politically charged content. The punk duo openly expressed support for Palestine, criticized Israel, and led the crowd in chants calling for “death to the Israel Defence Forces (IDF).” Frontman Bobby Vylan led cries of “Free, free Palestine” alongside the more provocative “Death, death to the IDF” chant.

The police didn’t specify which exact parts of either Bob Vylan or Kneecap’s performances were under investigation, but the focus on Bob Vylan's politically charged remarks has kept the spotlight on them.

The Fallout: Tour Cancellations and Visa Issues

Following their Glastonbury set, Bob Vylan faced significant backlash:

• They were dropped as the support act for Gogol Bordello’s upcoming European tour.
• Several shows in Germany and France were cancelled.
• Their agents reportedly severed ties.
• US visas were revoked, preventing them from touring in America.

The controversy even led to a BBC Music executive stepping down after the broadcaster aired Vylan’s set live. The BBC labeled the comments as “offensive and deplorable,” and announced they will no longer live broadcast performances deemed “high risk” in the future.

Support and Solidarity From Fellow Artists

Despite the backlash and investigations, Bob Vylan received support from various artists and groups, including:

• Lambrini Girls, Amyl & The Sniffers, and Soft Play.
• Legendary trip-hop pioneers Massive Attack, who urged media to shift focus to “what is happening daily to the people of Gaza.”
• Chuck D, founding member of Public Enemy, who stated, “we have to be able to fight for peace and love by any means necessary.”

This outpouring of support highlights the ongoing debate about freedom of expression and political activism within music.

Bob Vylan’s First Show Post-Glastonbury

Earlier this month, Bob Vylan played their first show since Glastonbury at London’s iconic 100 Club. During the performance, some fans tried to reignite the “death to the IDF” chant. Bobby Vylan quickly intervened, cautioning the crowd:

“No no no no no, you’re gonna get me in trouble. Apparently, every other chant is fine, but you lot will get me in trouble.”

He then redirected the crowd to chant “Free, free Palestine” instead.

You can watch footage of that moment here:

Kneecap Respond to Dropped Investigation

Meanwhile, Kneecap shared an email from the Senior Investigating Officer at Avon and Somerset Police confirming that no further action will be taken regarding their Glastonbury set. The email states:

“Following a review of the evidence, I have determined there will be no further action. I would be grateful if you could communicate this to your clients…”

Kneecap responded publicly, calling the investigation a politically motivated intimidation attempt and celebrating their set as a historic moment filled with love and solidarity.

They criticized the police for launching a public investigation that was later quietly closed with no public apology, calling it “state intimidation” and vowing to “continue to fight” and “continue to win.”

Reflecting on the Power and Impact of Music at Festivals

This situation raises many questions about artistic freedom, political expression, and the responsibility of public platforms.

Are music festivals the right place for such overt political statements? How much freedom should artists have to voice their political beliefs during live performances? It’s clear that Bob Vylan’s Glastonbury set will be remembered not just for its music but for the controversy and conversations it sparked worldwide.

Summary:

• Police have dropped the Kneecap Glastonbury investigation due to insufficient evidence.
• Bob Vylan’s Glastonbury set remains under police investigation for separate statements on stage.
• Bob Vylan faced tour cancellations, agent drop, and US visa revocation following their controversial chants.
• BBC stopped live streaming “high risk” performances after backlash.
• Fellow artists voiced strong support for Bob Vylan.
• Bob Vylan urged fans to drop the “death to IDF” chant during a recent London gig.
• Kneecap publicly condemned the police investigation as political intimidation and celebrated their Glastonbury set.

What’s your take on political expression in music festivals? Should artists have unrestricted freedom on stage, or do some lines need to be drawn?

Frequently Asked Questions

• What was the main reason for police investigating Bob Vylan’s Glastonbury set?
  Police are investigating comments made during Bob Vylan’s performance, particularly their politically charged chants including calls against the Israel Defence Forces.
• Why was Kneecap’s investigation dropped?
  Avon and Somerset Police closed the inquiry due to insufficient evidence to pursue any legal action.
• How did Bob Vylan respond to the controversy post-Glastonbury?
  They played a show at The 100 Club, where they stopped fans from chanting “death to the IDF” to avoid further trouble, redirecting chants to “Free Palestine.”
• What impact did the controversy have on Bob Vylan’s touring plans?
  They were dropped from supporting Gogol Bordello’s European tour, had shows cancelled in Europe, agents dropped them, and had US visas revoked.
• What stance did other artists take regarding Bob Vylan’s situation?
  Many artists like Massive Attack and Chuck D showed support, emphasizing the importance of addressing political issues through music and media focus.

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