Police Update: Man Interviewed Over Bob Vylan’s Glastonbury Performance

Police interview man regarding remarks made during Bob Vylan’s Glastonbury set amid ongoing public order investigation.

The Glastonbury Controversy That Sparked a Police Probe

If you caught Bob Vylan’s incendiary set at Glastonbury Festival this June, then you already know how charged the atmosphere was. The punk-rap duo took to the West Holts Stage on June 28 and didn’t hold back, using their platform to shout out support for Palestine and deliver sharp critiques of global powers, including the BBC and the UK and US governments.

Bob Vylan electrifying the crowd at Glastonbury Festival.

Frontman Bobby Vylan famously asked the crowd, “Have you heard this one?” before leading a contentious chant of “Death, death to the IDF [Israel Defence Forces].” That moment ignited a flurry of reactions far beyond the muddy fields of Glastonbury.

From Stage Chants to a Police Investigation

The chant didn’t just stir up festival-goers — it prompted Avon and Somerset Police to launch a criminal investigation. Recently, the force confirmed that a man in his 30s voluntarily attended an interview with officers on November 10 as part of the ongoing inquiry. This is a pretty standard move in investigations where arrest isn’t deemed necessary, but the police want to gather information under caution.

Avon and Somerset Police elaborated:

“The matter has been recorded as a public order incident while we continue to investigate and consider all relevant legislation.”

They also received legal advice from the Crown Prosecution Service, signaling the seriousness of the situation. The investigation is still in motion as all angles and legal frameworks are reviewed.

The Fallout for Bob Vylan: Tour Disruptions and Visa Issues

The Glastonbury controversy didn’t just stop at the police inquiry. Bob Vylan faced significant career disruptions in the aftermath:

• Several international shows were canceled.
• Their US visas were revoked, blocking a tour in the States.
• Two UK shows, in Manchester and Leeds, were postponed until next year due to political pressures and ongoing fallout.

The ripple effects of their bold stage statements have been huge, and the band remains unapologetic.

Ongoing Tensions Ahead of London Show

Fast forward to November 11, Bob Vylan hit the stage at London’s O2 Forum Kentish Town for their ‘We Won’t Go Quietly’ UK tour. The Metropolitan Police, however, were already on high alert. Ahead of the gig, they announced Public Order Act conditions to prevent “serious disruption and serious disorder” as two protests were scheduled nearby.

The police tweeted:

This evening a concert by the act Bob Vylan will take place at the O2 Forum Kentish Town. We're aware of two planned protests and we've imposed Public Order Act conditions to prevent serious disruption and serious disorder.

The energy surrounding Bob Vylan’s performances remains palpable, with tensions still simmering among fans, protesters, and authorities alike.

Clearing Their Name: The “Nazi Salute” Libel Case

Amidst the controversy, Bob Vylan recently won a legal battle over defamatory claims published by a major news outlet alleging a “Nazi salute” at one of their gigs. Rahman Lowe Solicitors announced on November 7 that the duo secured a full apology, substantial damages, and legal costs paid by the publisher, who promised never to repeat the allegations.

This victory was a critical moment for the band, helping clear their name from damaging accusations during an already turbulent period.

Bobby Vylan Speaks Out: No Regrets Over Glastonbury Chant

Last month, Bob Vylan’s frontman gave a rare in-depth interview on The Louis Theroux Podcast, sharing his thoughts on the Glastonbury incident. When asked if he would lead the controversial chant again, Bobby’s answer was emphatic and unwavering:

“Oh yeah. Like what if I was to go on Glastonbury again tomorrow, yes I would do it again. I’m not regretful of it. I’d do it again tomorrow, twice on Sundays. I’m not regretful of it at all.”

The interview itself stirred more controversy when British Airways decided to pull its sponsorship from the podcast, citing a breach of sponsorship policy.

The Fallout of the Podcast Interview

British Airways’ withdrawal of sponsorship sparked a strong response from Bobby, who called it a “scare tactic” in a post on X (formerly Twitter):

“Make no mistake, this is a scare tactic. I went on the podcast and as hard as the lobby groups and media tried, they couldn’t twist anything I said. So they have resorted to lobbying for Louis’ sponsorship to be pulled in an attempt to scare others out of giving me a platform.”

It’s clear that Bob Vylan remains undeterred, standing firm in their political convictions and artistic expression despite mounting pressures.

Why Bob Vylan’s Story Matters

Bob Vylan’s story is a vivid example of how music and politics collide, especially when artists use their voice to confront powerful issues. Their willingness to speak out, even when facing legal battles, visa bans, and public scrutiny, echoes the rebellious spirit punk and rap have always embodied.

For fans who’ve followed Bob Vylan, their Glastonbury set was more than just a performance—it was a statement. It’s a reminder that music festivals aren’t just about tunes and good times but can become stages for fiery discussions on justice and freedom.

FAQ

• What was the police investigation about?
  A man was interviewed regarding comments made during Bob Vylan's Glastonbury set, particularly the chant against the Israel Defense Forces.
• Has anyone been arrested?
  No arrests have been made. The man attended a voluntary interview as part of the investigation.
• What impact did the Glastonbury set have on Bob Vylan’s tour?
  Several shows were canceled or postponed, US visas were revoked, and international dates were affected.
• Did Bob Vylan face any defamatory accusations?
  Yes, they won a legal case over false claims about a “Nazi salute” at one of their concerts.
• Is Bobby Vylan regretful about the chant?
  No, Bobby has publicly stated he would repeat the chant and stands by his actions.

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