Bob Vylan dropped from two shows after Glastonbury
The group, initially slated to headline the festival at Victoria Warehouse, was removed from the lineup after facing official backlash over chants led by their lead singer during their Glastonbury set. The duo had been due to perform on Saturday, but the festival organizers confirmed they would no longer appear, though the reason for the removal was not publicly disclosed.
Bob Vylan responded to the cancellation by posting a statement on Instagram, assuring fans, 'Manchester, we will be back,' and emphasizing their commitment to speaking out on political issues.
-Instagram.
The group had also been scheduled to perform at the French Kave Fest on Sunday, but organizers pulled them from that event as well, with an official statement expected.
The controversy began when Bob Vylan's lead singer led the Glastonbury crowd in chants of 'death to the IDF' (Israel Defense Forces), which garnered widespread condemnation from the oficcials. The BBC, which livestreamed the performance, apologized for airing the performance, calling the remarks 'antisemitic' and 'unacceptable.' Avon and Somerset Police have opened a criminal investigation into the performance, recording it as a 'public order incident' and reviewing potential hate crime legislation.
In response to the Glastonbury performance buzz, Bob Vylan clarified their stance through a measured post on social media, stating they are not advocating for the death of any group but instead calling for the dismantling of what they described as a violent military machine. They expressed that they were being 'targeted for speaking up' and criticized the lack of action from governments on issues they raised, particularly regarding the situation in Palestine.
In addition to the festival cancellations, Bob Vylan's upcoming U.S. tour has also been canceled, with their visas revoked due to the Glastonbury incident. The duo also lost a performance at a German venue. The band remains defiant, urging others to speak up against perceived injustice.
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