FROM ‘FINE ART’ TO THE OSCARS: KNEECAPS IMPACT ON MUSIC AND FREE SPEECH

Having spent the last decade scouring the music industry for something meaningful and a lifetime as a die-hard music lover, it’s incredibly rare and thrilling to come across a band like Kneecap. They are, without a doubt, one of the most important bands out there right now. The Irish are not only dominating the live scene but also providing a much-needed voice in a world full of propaganda, fakery, and bullshit. Kneecap has the guts to stand up for the repressed and fight for their beliefs, which is something we don’t see much of these days.

As someone who holds a great deal of empathy for the repressed, witnessing the daily atrocities around the world, often linked to British involvement, fills me with a profound sense of shame for my country. Kneecap advocates for a united Ireland, free from British rule and this stance is reflected in their music, as they push for the unification of Ireland, and so they should.

One thing Kneecap recognises is that music has the ability to unite people, promoting communication and inspiring listeners to discuss these subjects and think critically about them. They understand that people with a platform have the power to motivate their followers to take up causes, make donations, or engage in other ways that support them, bringing about positive change. They inspire people to have a voice, especially the youth, to be more socially conscious and involved in their local communities by taking a stand on significant topics. I cannot stress how important this is, nor how ashamed I am than other artists don’t do the same. Fearless and outspoken, they fight relentlessly for their beliefs, not only for their own but also for the rights of other repressed countries like Palestine. Their passion, fight, and ability to keep their native Irish tongue alive, so creatively, is something I massively admire.

Since the genocide in Palestine began just over a year ago, very few public figures have had the guts to speak out on these horrors. Kneecap, however, has been very vocal in their support for Palestine. With 800 years of colonialism in Ireland, it is easy for them to draw parallels between their fight for Irish unification and the Palestinian struggle for self-determination.

The trio Móglaí Bap, DJ Próvaí, and Mo Chara, admirably organised a football-themed fundraiser and unveiled a mural to raise awareness and funds for Palestinian families. The fundraiser, held at the Hawthorne Bar in Belfast, raised £1,300 for food parcels for families in Palestine, and the group also donated £5,000 to a family escaping Gaza. The mural, which reads “Saoirse Don Phailistín” (Freedom for Palestine), mirrors their previous mural calling for England to leave Ireland. Their solidarity with Palestine was also evident during their appearance on the “Late Late Show,” where DJ Próvaí wore a Palestine football jersey. They also used the platform to call for Irish people to support the Boycott, Divestment, and Sanctions (BDS) movement and attend rallies and protests.

“Kneecap’s support for Palestine aligns with their broader political beliefs and their advocacy for self-determination, drawing a clear connection between the struggles of the Irish and Palestinian people.“

Their debut single back in 2017 “C.E.A.R.T.A.” includes a line calling for the legalisation of weed in a united Ireland, reflecting their political stance. During a performance at Belfast’s Empire Music Hall, Kneecap led a chant of “get the Brits out” just a day after a visit by the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, underscoring their anti-British sentiment and support for a united Ireland. In a bold display of their dislike for the British police presence in Northern Ireland, the band unveiled a painting depicting a burning PSNI Land Rover with the words “RUC not welcome” printed in Irish which was displayed in West Belfast.

Kneecap has absolutely no fear to post their views on social media, tweeting “We say foc the queen agus tiocfaidh ar la,” which translates to “We say f*** the queen and our day will come.” All of this illustrates Kneecap’s ferocious republican viewpoint.

“Kneecap’s music is more than just entertainment, it’s a call to action. By blending their political convictions with their art, they remind us of the power of music to challenge the status quo and advocate for justice, both at home and across the globe.“

Their influence indeed extends beyond music, reaching cultural and political spheres. Their biographical film “Kneecap” has been well-received, further amplifying their message. The film’s success at the Sundance Film Festival and its selection as Ireland’s entry for the International Feature Film category at the Oscars have brought their activism to a global audience and deserve commendation.

“This was such a joy to watch. From the quality acting, amazing script and compelling story it was all top notch. It’s so important that stories like these are shared. Awareness around indigenous languages around the world, and the history of colonisation and how trauma is passed on from generation to generation is how everyone will heal and move forward together. Best film I’ve seen all year.”

Xanthe Sefton

Kneecap have a devoted fan base of all ages thanks to their original fusion of English and Irish songs, biting humour, and catchy rhythms. Songs like “H.O.O.D.” demonstrate their innate talent to craft compelling narratives and themes that tackle real life and serious issues including political instability, brexit/trade disruptions, human right concerns, economic disparities and social tensions all faced by the Irish.

This new approach on hip-hop conveys a potent political message while simultaneously striking a profound emotional connection with listeners. Their debut album “Fine Art” has become one of my all-time favourites. It demonstrates that Kneecap’s activism and creative talent are not just supplementary but they are absolutely crucial in a world where free speech appears to be increasingly precarious.

Kneecap is currently on their “Fine Art” tour, which includes multiple dates across the UK and Ireland. All dates in bold are sold out.

TOUR DATES

October 27, 2024 – Killarney, Gleneagle INEC Arena
October 29-31, 2024 – Dublin, Vicar Street
November 8, 2024 – London, O2 Forum Kentish Town
November 14, 2024 – Sheffield, Foundry
November 15, 2024 – Manchester, New Century
November 16-17, 2024 – Glasgow, Barrowland Ballroom
November 19, 2024 – Nottingham, Rock City
November 20, 2024 – Bristol, SWX
November 21, 2024 – London, O2 Forum Kentish Town
December 21, 2024 – Belfast, SSE Arena12

You can buy tickets for only the Nottingham show via Kneecap’s official website. The band also announced Digital at Newcastle on Dec 14th. Pre-sale, Wednesday 10am. General sale, Friday 10am. See Kneecap website above.