Refused Explain Why They Won't Boycott KKR-Backed Festivals This Summer

Swedish hardcore band Refused share their reasoning behind playing festivals connected to KKR-backed Superstruct, amidst calls for boycotts over controversial investments.

Refused Speak Out on KKR Festival Controversy

Swedish hardcore legends Refused recently opened up about their decision not to boycott music festivals owned by Superstruct Entertainment, a company partly owned by the controversial US investment firm KKR (Kohlberg Kravis Roberts). This move comes amid widespread criticism of KKR’s alleged involvement in Israeli weapons manufacturing and ties to settlements in the West Bank during the ongoing Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

In June 2024, KKR acquired Superstruct Entertainment for approximately $1.3 billion. Superstruct operates several popular festivals such as Field Day, Mighty Hoopla, Sónar, and Tramlines. Since the acquisition, many artists have decided to boycott these festivals in protest of KKR's controversial investments.

Artists Taking a Stand Against KKR

A notable group of 50 artists, including Massive Attack and Brian Eno, signed an open letter urging Field Day to distance itself from KKR’s ownership. Additionally, 11 artists recently announced their boycott of the festival in solidarity with Palestine.

However, Refused chose a different path. They shared a detailed post on Instagram explaining their decision to continue performing at Superstruct-backed events this summer.

Refused’s Candid Instagram Statement

The band revealed, “So a week ago we found out that some of the festivals we’re playing this summer are backed by an entertainment conglomerate called Superstruct in which a bad bad actor named KKR is part owner. KKR invests in Israeli cyber security among other messed up things.”

“Our first instinct was to immediately jump ship, to boycott.” – Refused

Despite initial instincts, the band engaged directly with festival organizers, who expressed shared values and regret that KKR had become involved after their collaboration began. Organizers felt that most of their audiences would sympathize with Refused’s concerns.

Wider Industry Connections and Ethical Dilemmas

Refused also pointed out that Live Nation, which manages some of their other upcoming shows, is owned by BlackRock, a firm heavily invested in weapons manufacturing. They highlighted Spotify's controversial donations to Donald Trump's inauguration and investments in military AI.

Calling these companies “the scum of the earth,” Refused admitted the situation is complex. One festival even offered them a large sum of money to donate to pro-Palestinian causes.

Why Refused Are Choosing to Play

The band summed up the dilemma: boycotting would feel morally good and protect their legacy. But they believe that such a boycott would likely make no difference to KKR.

Instead, Refused want to use their platform to “make some noise, to meet our people, to celebrate the resistance and raise money for the Palestinian cause this summer.”

“To us, it is the right thing to do, to get out there and be a thorn in the side of Zionists, fascists, venture capitalists and to fan the flames of discontent together with our bright, informed comrades all over Europe.” – Refused

They encouraged fans to suggest local organizations and activists they could collaborate with during their tour.

Refused’s Call to Action

The band concluded with a passionate call: “Free Palestine!!!” Their stance shows a willingness to confront injustice directly from the stage, rather than retreating from the controversy.

Watch Refused's powerful track New Noise below, symbolizing their confrontational spirit:

Festivals Respond to KKR Backlash

Several festivals under Superstruct’s umbrella have publicly distanced themselves from KKR’s investments:

• Tramlines vowed to “never send them a single Euro.”
• Mighty Hoopla expressed “clear opposition to KKR’s unethical investments.”
• Boiler Room, acquired by Superstruct, issued a statement in March condemning KKR’s values and reaffirming their pro-Palestine stance.

Superstruct also owns other major European events like Boardmasters, Y Not, Truck, Kendal Calling, Victorious, Flow Sziget, Lost Village, and Bennicassim.

Refused's Final Tour and Festival Dates

Refused announced their final ever UK and European shows for 2025 after confirming their split last year. The band is touring this summer, and many fans eagerly await these farewell performances.

For a full list of tour dates and tickets, check official ticket platforms.

Conclusion: Taking a Stand in Tough Times

Refused’s choice to play KKR-linked festivals while actively supporting Palestinian causes raises an important question: In a complex world where ethical lines blur, is resistance more effective on stage or through boycott? What would you do if faced with similar choices?

Frequently Asked Questions

• What is KKR and why is it controversial?
  KKR is a US investment firm that recently acquired Superstruct Entertainment. It faces criticism for alleged investments in Israeli weapons manufacturing and ties to settlements in the West Bank.
• Which festivals does KKR own?
  KKR owns Superstruct Entertainment, which operates festivals including Field Day, Mighty Hoopla, Sónar, Tramlines, Boardmasters, Y Not, and others.
• Why are some artists boycotting these festivals?
  Artists are protesting KKR's controversial investments linked to military activities in Israel and its conflict with Palestine.
• Why did Refused decide not to boycott?
  Refused believe boycotting won’t impact KKR and instead want to use their platform to raise awareness and funds for Palestine.
• How can fans support Refused's pro-Palestine efforts?
  Refused welcome suggestions from local organizations and activists to collaborate during their tour to amplify the cause.

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