Anti-Israel rap band Kneecap has reportedly threatened to sue a group of music agents who have called on Glastonbury to drop the group after it was placed under investigation by counter-terror police.
The trio, from Belfast, have a long history of anti-Israel activism but drew particular scrutiny this year when clips from previous concerts surfaced on social media showing members of the band saying “Up Hamas, up Hezbollah” and “Kill your local MP”.
The comments are now under investigation by the Metropolitan Police’s counter-terrorism unit, which last night confirmed it had found “grounds for further investigation into potential offences”.
In light of the probe, a number of music agents have written to Glastonbury founder Emily Eavis and two of the festival’s organisers to urge them to cancel Kneecap’s planned performance at the event, according to MailOnline.
An email exchange marked “private and confidential” between over 30 individuals was reportedly leaked to the band, with the outlet quoting a solicitor’s letter sent to those on the chain in response.
The letter claimed: “Your correspondence seeks to monopolise your status within the industry to impose direct and concerted pressure on Glastonbury, to restrict freedom of expression.
"Such a direct and coordinated approach seeks to create a chilling effect upon the wider music industry whereby those who hold opposing views, will seek to impose their own view on the wider industry.
"We write to put you on notice that we are now formally instructed to commence high court civil proceedings for damages for the damage you have inflicted on our client’s reputation.
“However, before our clients formally seek to issue pre action correspondence, we write to offer you the opportunity to resolve these matters by way of an immediate and unequivocal apology.”
Kneecap have previously claimed that they are the victims of a “smear campaign” orchestrated by “members of the establishment” to try and “silence” their anti-Israel advocacy.
They have also shared a tweet on the band’s official feed claiming that Israel “owns politicians” and “controls corporate media”.
Glastonbury has previously declined to respond to the JC’s requests for comment.
