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Kneecap's Coachella Protest Escalates Festival Accountability Debate

The Irish rap trio's pro-Palestinian visuals and bypassing of livestream controls have intensified scrutiny on Coachella's organizers and the limits of artist expression.

INDIO, CALIFORNIA - APRIL 18: (FOR EDITORIAL USE ONLY) Members of the band Kneecap including Mo Chara and Moglai Bap perform onstage during Day 1 of Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival on April 18, 2025 in Indio, California. (Photo by Scott Dudelson/Getty Images for Coachella)
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Overview

  • Kneecap projected messages like 'Fuck Israel. Free Palestine' and accused Israel of genocide during their second Coachella performance, following claims of censorship during Weekend 1.
  • The band circumvented Coachella's non-livestreaming of the Sonora tent by sharing visuals on social media and collaborating with Twitch streamer Hasan Piker to amplify their protest to millions.
  • Goldenvoice CEO Paul Tollett was reportedly caught off guard by the band's actions, as advocacy groups called for accountability and boycotts of Kneecap.
  • Kneecap's messaging drew parallels between the Palestinian plight and Ireland's history under British rule, framing their protest as a broader anti-colonial stance.
  • The controversy has sparked discussions about the responsibilities of festival organizers in platforming politically charged performances and the boundaries of free expression in live music.