Punk rap duo Bob Vylan have claimed they are being unfairly targeted after leading controversial chants during their performance at the Glastonbury Festival. The group faced criticism and a police investigation following their livestreamed set, where frontman Bobby Vylan led the crowd in chants including “Death, death to the IDF (Israel Defence Forces)” and “Free, free Palestine.”
The BBC issued an apology after the West Holts Stage performance was broadcast on iPlayer, condemning the chants as “antisemitic sentiments” that were “unacceptable.” Avon and Somerset Police launched an inquiry after reviewing footage, treating the matter as a public order incident and appointing a senior detective to oversee the investigation.
In a statement posted on Instagram titled “Silence is not an option,” Bob Vylan emphasized they do not advocate harm toward any group but oppose the actions of a violent military apparatus responsible for civilian casualties and destruction in Gaza. They argued that their expression is a distraction from government inaction on the Palestinian crisis and called for freedom of speech and human rights advocacy.
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The controversy follows a similar situation involving Irish rap group Kneecap, who also led “Free Palestine” chants during their Glastonbury set. Avon and Somerset Police confirmed their probe includes both performances.
The BBC was criticized for continuing to livestream Bob Vylan’s set with content warnings after the incident. It also emerged that BBC director-general Tim Davie was present at Glastonbury and was informed about the performance afterward, deciding it should not be featured further.
Adding to the fallout, Bob Vylan’s scheduled US tour was canceled after their visas were revoked. US Deputy Secretary of State Christopher Landau condemned their performance as a “hateful tirade,” citing this as the reason for the visa denial.
Formed in Ipswich in 2017, Bob Vylan is known for addressing political topics such as racism, class, and masculinity through their music. Despite the backlash, they are slated to perform at upcoming UK festivals including Radar Festival in Manchester and Boardmasters in Newquay.