Field Day Speaks Out Against KKR’s Unethical Investments in Israel: "Free Palestine"

Field Day festival stands firmly against KKR’s controversial investments in Israel, emphasizing support for Palestine and condemning unethical practices.

Field Day Festival Responds to Artist Boycotts and Controversy

Field Day, London's renowned music festival slated for May 24 in Brockwell Park, has recently clarified its stance amid mounting controversy over its ownership ties. The festival's parent company, Superstruct Entertainment, is owned by the global investment firm KKR, which has sparked backlash due to its controversial investments.

Last week, the festival issued a statement following pressure from artists and fans about KKR's involvement, but the message left many feeling unresolved. After 50 artists, including Massive Attack and Brian Eno, signed an open letter urging Field Day to distance itself from KKR, 11 artists withdrew from the festival lineup.

The uproar stems from KKR’s financial stakes in industries and corporations linked to weapons manufacturing, the Coastal GasLink pipeline, and several Israeli businesses operating in occupied Palestinian territories.

Acknowledging the Pain and Standing with Palestine

In response to the backlash, Field Day acknowledged the hurt and anger felt by the community. The festival team emphasized that their partnership with Superstruct was integral in securing Field Day’s future but admitted the need for transparency.

On May 20, Field Day took to Instagram to further clarify their position, apologizing for not fully addressing the concerns about KKR’s investments in Israel earlier.

“We would like to say, clearly and directly, that we stand with the people of Gaza and support the peaceful aims of the Palestinian civil organisations and everyone working tirelessly to give them a voice.”
– Field Day statement

The festival urged for an immediate end to military actions and occupation, alongside the urgent provision of vital humanitarian aid for Gaza.

Field Day’s Firm Opposition to KKR’s Investments

Although unaware of KKR’s investment in Superstruct last year, Field Day expressed unequivocal opposition to the firm’s unethical investments in Israel.

“We cannot control who owns our parent company but we promise to make our – and your – voices, and the ethical values we regard as non-negotiable, heard and understood at all levels,” the statement said.

Field Day concluded by reiterating its commitment to inclusivity, welcoming everyone regardless of nationality, race, religion, gender, or sexuality, finishing with a strong message: Free Palestine.

Wider Industry Impact and Related Festival Responses

Other events connected to Superstruct, such as Boiler Room and Mighty Hoopla, have also faced backlash.

Boiler Room reaffirmed their “unapologetically pro-Palestine” stance earlier this year after artists canceled performances. Mighty Hoopla released a statement supporting opposition to KKR’s investments, emphasizing that no investor could change the festival’s values or the community it serves.

Legal Challenges and Festival Plans for the Summer

Despite legal complications over planning permissions, Field Day, Mighty Hoopla, and Wide Awake festivals are confirmed to proceed at Brockwell Park this summer.

Local resident Rebekah Shaman of Protect Brockwell Park successfully challenged Lambeth Council in court, claiming the festival organizers lacked proper planning permissions. However, organisers announced on May 19 that the events will continue as planned.

Brockwell Live shares updates on the festival series

Lineup Highlights for Field Day 2025

The 2025 Field Day festival features top acts such as:

• Peggy Gou (headliner)
• Folamour
• Skream & Benga
• Mall Grab
• Jungle (DJ set)

This lineup promises an exciting and diverse musical experience for attendees.

Field Day’s recent communications highlight the complex intersection of music, ethics, and politics, especially when it comes to ownership and investment ties.

FAQs

• What sparked the artist boycott at Field Day?
  Artists protested KKR’s ownership due to its investments in weapons manufacturing and Israeli corporations in occupied territories.
• How has Field Day responded to the controversy?
  Field Day acknowledged the concerns, declared opposition to KKR’s investments, and pledged to uphold ethical values.
• Are other events affected by KKR’s involvement?
  Yes, festivals like Boiler Room and Mighty Hoopla have faced similar backlash and issued statements against KKR’s investments.
• Will the Field Day festival still take place?
  Yes, despite legal challenges, Field Day is confirmed to go ahead at Brockwell Park in May 2025.
• Who are the headliners at Field Day 2025?
  Peggy Gou headlines, supported by Folamour, Skream & Benga, Mall Grab, and Jungle (DJ set).

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