Kneecap Removed from TRNSMT Festival 2024 Amid Police Concerns and Controversy
In a surprising and controversial move, Northern Irish hip-hop trio Kneecap has been officially removed from the 2024 TRNSMT Festival lineup in Glasgow, Scotland, following concerns raised by law enforcement regarding public safety. The decision, announced just weeks before the July festival, has sparked widespread reaction from fans, fellow musicians, and human rights advocates—many of whom are questioning the motives behind the removal and what it means for freedom of expression in music.
Originally set to perform alongside major names like 50 Cent, Gracie Abrams, and Fontaines D.C., Kneecap was one of the most anticipated acts at this year’s event. The group, known for their politically charged lyrics, bilingual performances in English and Irish, and fierce advocacy for Irish unity and social justice, has built a passionate following in Scotland and beyond. So the announcement that they would no longer be performing at TRNSMT came as a shock to many—especially the thousands who had already bought tickets, flights, and accommodations just to see them.
Let’s dive deeper into what happened, why the police got involved, and what this means for Kneecap and the broader music scene in the UK and Ireland.
Law Enforcement Intervenes: “No Prior Consultation”
Trouble began brewing just last week when Police Scotland publicly voiced concerns about Kneecap’s scheduled appearance at TRNSMT. According to police statements, there was “no prior consultation” between the festival organizers and law enforcement regarding the booking of the act. Officers highlighted the potential for unrest or disruption, citing the band’s politically charged performances and suggesting that a “significant policing operation” would be required to ensure safety at the event.
While these statements were vague, they raised red flags about how public authorities are choosing to respond to politically vocal artists. In a public statement, a police spokesperson explained:
“Officers have highlighted the potential reaction of such a large audience to this band would require a significant policing operation in order to support the delivery of a safe event.”
In response to the police concerns, festival organizers made the decision to remove Kneecap from the lineup, though no official statement was released at the time detailing exactly who made the final call.
Kneecap Responds: “We Were Removed”
Kneecap, never ones to shy away from controversy, took to social media on Wednesday, May 28, to break the news to fans themselves. In a statement shared across their platforms, the trio said:
“To the thousands of people who bought tickets, flights and hotels to see us play, we are sorry…it is out of our hands.”
They added:
“Glasgow has always been a huge city for us. We’ve played there many many times, with no issues – ever. Make of that what you will.”
The band also emphasized that they did not voluntarily withdraw from the festival—a distinction they were quick to clarify:
“Kneecap didn’t ‘pull out’ of TRNSMT – Kneecap were removed.”
This clarification was aimed at correcting some initial media reports that had misrepresented the situation, suggesting the group had pulled out voluntarily. The tone of Kneecap’s response was defiant yet disappointed, echoing a long-standing tension between the group and authorities in both Northern Ireland and the broader UK.
A Make-Up Show Announced at Glasgow’s O2 Academy
To ease the disappointment of fans who had already made plans to see them, Kneecap quickly announced a replacement show. The trio will now be performing at Glasgow’s O2 Academy on July 8, just days after the TRNSMT festival wraps up. The band promised that the new show would go ahead as planned and encouraged fans to join them for what they called a “proper Kneecap gig.”
This last-minute pivot demonstrates the group’s commitment to their fans and underscores their ongoing popularity, particularly in cities like Glasgow where their fan base has always been strong. The move also allows Kneecap to take control of the narrative and deliver a performance on their own terms, outside of the festival structure that had excluded them.
The Bigger Controversy: Mo Chara Faces Terrorism Charge
The timing of Kneecap’s removal from TRNSMT has drawn even more scrutiny in light of recent legal troubles involving one of the band’s members.
Just last week, Mo Chara—real name Liam Óg Ó hAnnaidh—was charged with a terrorism offense by London’s Metropolitan Police. The charge stems from historic videos in which he allegedly expressed support for Hamas and Hezbollah, two organizations that are classified as terrorist groups under UK law.
According to UK authorities, expressing support for such groups, even in the form of symbolic gestures or statements made in older videos, can be prosecuted under the Terrorism Act 2000. Mo Chara is set to appear at Westminster Magistrates’ Court on June 18, and if convicted, could face serious legal consequences.
Kneecap has strongly denied the allegations, stating:
“We deny this ‘offence’ and will vehemently defend ourselves.”
The band’s statement further argues that the charges are politically motivated and represent an attempt to silence outspoken artists who challenge the status quo.
Artists and Fans React: “This Feels Like Censorship”
News of Kneecap’s removal from TRNSMT has ignited debate across social media, music forums, and political circles. Many fans, activists, and artists see this as a form of censorship, especially considering the band’s history of anti-establishment messaging and criticism of British government policies in Northern Ireland.
Kneecap has built its reputation on tackling taboo subjects—be it British colonialism, police violence, or class inequality. Their songs often feature provocative imagery, political satire, and references to Irish republicanism, earning them both fierce loyalty and vocal opposition.
One fan on Twitter wrote:
“This feels like more than just a safety concern. Kneecap being removed because of their politics is a slippery slope for live music.”
Another user added:
“They’ve played Glasgow many times before with no issues. This just doesn’t add up.”
Even fellow musicians have come to their defense. A well-known indie rock singer from Dublin posted:
“Whether or not you agree with Kneecap’s views, banning artists from festivals based on their political beliefs is wrong. Let the music speak.”
Kneecap’s Cultural and Political Impact
Kneecap isn’t just a hip-hop group—they’re a cultural movement. Emerging from Belfast, the trio blends hard-hitting beats with bilingual lyrics in English and Irish, crafting songs that are as much about identity and resistance as they are about rhythm and rhyme.
Their rise coincided with a renewed interest in Irish language, culture, and politics among younger generations in Northern Ireland, especially those who feel disillusioned by the political status quo. Kneecap taps into this zeitgeist with raw authenticity, humor, and irreverence.
Their music videos, social media presence, and interviews often feature anti-establishment messaging, Irish republican symbolism, and commentary on social justice. In short, they represent a new wave of Irish artists using music as a tool for political expression—and not everyone in authority is comfortable with that.
What’s Next for Kneecap?
While their removal from TRNSMT has undoubtedly caused disappointment, it may also boost Kneecap’s visibility and support even further. The group’s ability to galvanize fans, draw headlines, and spark dialogue speaks to their growing importance not just as musicians but as cultural figures.
Their show at the O2 Academy in Glasgow is expected to sell out quickly, and the band has hinted at future tour dates and new releases. Meanwhile, Mo Chara’s upcoming court appearance in June will likely bring more media attention to their story.
Whether you see Kneecap as agitators, artists, or both, one thing is clear—they’re not going away anytime soon. And their growing popularity suggests that fans across Ireland, the UK, and beyond are hungry for music that challenges, provokes, and refuses to conform.
Final Thoughts
Kneecap’s removal from TRNSMT 2024 marks a significant moment in the ongoing conversation around music, politics, and censorship. As the lines between artistic expression and public controversy blur, the story of this Northern Irish trio serves as a reminder of how powerful—and polarizing—music can be.
For now, fans can catch them in Glasgow on July 8, and the world will be watching closely as their legal and musical journey continues.