Kneecap’s Rock En Seine Spot Triggers Major Funding Cut

The inclusion of Kneecap in the Rock En Seine lineup has led to a significant funding slash for the festival, stirring debate over art and politics.

Kneecap’s Controversial Booking at Rock En Seine

Irish rap trio Kneecap’s appearance at the upcoming Rock En Seine festival in Paris has caused a major stir, leading to a sharp cut in the event’s funding. The festival, scheduled for August 20 to 24 at Domaine National de Saint-Cloud, features a star-powered lineup including Chappell Roan, A$AP Rocky, Fontaines D.C., and Queens of the Stone Age.

Kneecap performing at Glastonbury 2025

Despite multiple controversies surrounding Kneecap this year, organizers decided to keep them on the bill. However, this choice has come at a price.

Funding Cut Sparks Public Outcry

The mayor of Saint-Cloud, Éric Berdoati, alongside the local council, voted to withdraw the €40,000 (approximately $45,000) government subsidy from Rock En Seine. Berdoati stated, “We subsidise cultural initiatives, not political ones. When it’s no longer in line with our objectives, we don’t fund it.”

The festival’s director, Mathieu Ducos, responded thoughtfully:

“When we programmed them last autumn, they weren’t the talk of the town, except for good reasons. I hope that the history we’ve managed to build and weave together doesn’t end with this dispute and the vision we have of this group.”

Subsidies like this make up roughly 3% of Rock En Seine’s annual budget, which totals a hefty €17 million (about $19 million) for the 2025 edition.

Watch Kneecap’s Latest Official Video: “The Recap”

Here’s their bold and energetic new release, The Recap, featuring MoZey. The video reflects the band’s fearless approach to contemporary issues.

Kneecap’s Troubled Tour History

This isn’t the first time Kneecap’s gigs have sparked controversy. In May, the group was pulled from the TRNSMT festival due to "safety concerns" raised by police. They quickly arranged a replacement show in Glasgow, where they openly criticized Scottish First Minister John Swinney.

The band was also removed from two German festivals and the Eden Project venue in Cornwall.

Ongoing Safety Concerns and Speculation

Rumors now swirl that Kneecap might be dropped from an upcoming major Fontaines D.C. show in Wythenshawe Park, Manchester, as local authorities and promoters discuss “safety concerns.”

Kneecap’s Controversial Political Statements

Back in 2024, police launched an investigation into Kneecap’s on-stage actions, notably when member Mo Chara allegedly brandished a flag supporting Hezbollah, a proscribed organization.

While the band denies backing Hamas or Hezbollah and insists they don’t condone violence, Mo Chara was charged with a terror offence by the Metropolitan Police. He appeared in court just days before their Glastonbury 2025 performance and was released on unconditional bail.

Defending Satire and Artistic Expression

Kneecap has consistently defended their performances as “satirical,” asserting it’s not their responsibility to dictate what audiences should find humorous or offensive. Recently, they released a vibrant video for The Recap, which critiques Conservative Party leader Kemi Badenoch.

Banned from London Underground Advertising

The band’s upcoming Wembley Arena show poster, scheduled for September 18, was banned from London Underground, labeled as “likely to cause widespread or serious offence.”

Kneecap fired back:

“How petty can political policing and interference get… Speak out against genocide and they’ll use every single angle they can to silence you. Join the IOF [sic], murder kids, fly to London and nothing happens – you’ll be welcomed and applauded.”

“See it. Say it. Censored.”

Kneecap at Glastonbury 2024: On Their Love for Fontaines D.C. and More

Watch Kneecap chat about their influences and thoughts on fellow artists like Lewis Capaldi and Paul Mescal during Glastonbury 2024.

The Line Between Art and Politics

The Rock En Seine funding cut over Kneecap’s inclusion underscores a larger cultural debate: When does artistic expression cross into political territory that funding bodies may refuse to support? Kneecap’s story shines a spotlight on the complex relationship between music, politics, and public funding.

Conclusion

Kneecap’s persistence in the face of political backlash raises questions about the role of art in sparking controversy. Should festivals risk funding cuts to support artists who challenge societal norms, or does political sensitivity take precedence? What do you think?

FAQs

• What caused the funding cut for Rock En Seine festival?
  The festival’s government subsidy was cut due to the inclusion of Kneecap, whose political controversies didn’t align with the local council’s objectives.
• Has Kneecap faced other cancellations?
  Yes, Kneecap was dropped from TRNSMT, two German festivals, and the Eden Project over safety concerns and political controversies.
• What was the controversy involving Mo Chara?
  Mo Chara was charged with a terror offence after allegedly displaying a Hezbollah flag on stage, though the band denies supporting any violent group.
• Why was Kneecap’s Wembley Arena poster banned?
  The London Underground banned the poster for being “likely to cause widespread or serious offence” due to the band’s political messaging.
• How much of Rock En Seine’s budget comes from subsidies?
  Subsidies make up about 3% of Rock En Seine’s €17 million budget for 2025.

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