Kneecap, a popular Irish-language hip-hop trio, took to the stage at the Wide Awake festival on Friday night, just days after one of its members was charged with a terror offence. The band’s performance was met with enthusiasm from fans who rallied behind them despite the controversy surrounding their frontman, Liam Óg Ó hAnnaidh.
Recent Charges
The Metropolitan Police charged Ó hAnnaidh with allegedly displaying a Hezbollah flag during one of Kneecap’s gigs last year. However, the band has denied any wrongdoing, labeling it as "political policing" and "a carnival of distraction" away from Gaza.
Acknowledgment of Privilege
During the performance, Liam Óg Ó hAnnaidh addressed the audience, acknowledging their presence and the joy of gathering for music. He urged fans to be mindful of their privilege in being able to enjoy the festival without fear of violence or harm:
"We’re out here enjoying ourselves. Let’s remember how lucky we are to be in this field with our friends and not being bombed from the sky."
Performance Highlights
The set featured many of Kneecap’s hit songs, including:
- Get Your Brits Out!
- H.O.O.D.
- Fine Art (feat. Niall Horan)
- Tiocfaidh Ár Lá (Our Day Will Come)
- The Recap – which included news clips about Liam Óg Ó hAnnaidh facing charges related to displaying Hezbollah flags during live performances.
Fans showed their support by wearing Palestinian flags alongside Irish ones, dancing and singing along with every word sung by:
- Mo Chara (Liam Óg Ó hAnnaidh)
- Mogaí Báp (Naoise Ó Caireallain)
- DJ Próvaí (JJ Ó Dochartaigh)
Social Issues in Music
Kneecap is known for its energetic live performances and catchy lyrics that often address social issues such as racism and inequality. Their music has resonated with fans across Ireland and beyond, making them one of the most popular bands in Ireland today.
Commitment to Causes
Despite facing controversy over recent events involving Hamas rockets fired into Israel last month, which left 12 people dead, Kneecap remains committed to using its platform for good causes. They aim to raise awareness about Palestine’s plight through their songwriting and performances at festivals like the Wide Awake Festival, where thousands gathered under rain clouds, dancing and singing along while holding up Palestinian flags high above all else.
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