Latest news with #MóglaíBap
The Hindu
8 hours ago
- Politics
- The Hindu
How Irish rap trio Kneecap is speaking out against genocide like no one else
On Wednesday afternoon, just steps away from the Westminster Magistrates' Court in London, a small crowd had gathered waving the colours of Palestine and Ireland. At the centre of it stood three young men from Belfast, wrapped in keffiyehs, ready to appear in court, as one of them faced charges of 'terrorism'. But in the eyes of those gathered, the prosecution only affirmed what Kneecap had always claimed: that their art, their anger, and their politics were dangerous enough to put them on trial. The raucous, bilingual hip-hop trio — made up of Mo Chara, Móglaí Bap, and DJ Próvaí — have, in a few short years, transformed from cult Gaelic-language oddities into bona fide political headliners around the globe. If one were to ask the British authorities, they are provocateurs, perhaps even radicals. If you asked the tens of thousands who chant 'Free Palestine' at their concerts, they are prophets of a new, unabashed youth culture of revolutionaries. Either way, they are hard to ignore, and harder still to shut up. They're already on the back foot...🔥 GRMA for the video @ — KNEECAP (@KNEECAPCEOL) June 18, 2025 The charges against Mo Chara (Liam Óg Ó hAnnaidh) stem from a performance in London in late 2024, where he allegedly waved a Hezbollah flag and shouted slogans in support of both Hezbollah and Hamas. The prosecution insisted this isn't about Palestine. The defense argued the charge is not only politically motivated but also technically invalid, citing a narrow reading of the statute of limitations. The legal wrangling continues despite Mo Chara being granted unconditional bail, but outside the courtroom, the rhetoric seems set. Kneecap has turned into a catalyst for Palestinian solidarity that stems from a deep, centuries-old connection between Ireland's own legacy of occupation and the global struggles against colonialism. And that, perhaps, is the key to understanding how a hip-hop group who rhyme in Gaelic about drugs, sex, and British imperialism have ended up being an uncompromising artistic voice for Gaza in the West. Kneecap is made up of three sharply distinct yet symbiotic personas: Mo Chara, the wiry firestarter whose deliveries swing between furious satire and solemn invective; Móglaí Bap, the self-styled poet-contrarian with a punk lyrical style; and DJ Próvaí, the group's sonic architect, whose beats fuse Irish folk samples with grime, trap, and jungle. Together, they trade verses in a brash blend of Gaelic and English that often weave party tracks with polemic. Their gopnik Adidas tracksuit aesthetics are often accessorised with their iconic tricolour balaclavas and Palestinian keffiyehs. Kneecap's music is an anarchic mashup of caustic punchlines and rave-ready anthems of rebellion. Their distinct sound threads resistance through bangers. Tracks like 'C.E.A.R.T.A.' and 'Amach Anocht' champion language rights with the stride of a street protest, while 'Fenian C**ts' turns a slur into a badge of honour, and the ferocious drum'n'bass takedown of British politics in 'The Recap,' has crowds screaming 'F**k [Kemi] Badenoch' with abandon. It's rather poetic that a band named after a paramilitary punishment has become the moral barometer for a generation. In Northern Ireland, 'kneecapping' was administered with a bullet and a warning. It was vigilante justice as deployed by the IRA against informants, drug dealers, and others deemed to have betrayed their community. The term now lives uneasily in popular memory as an echo of brutality and rebellion. For Kneecap, the name has been a punchy provocation. In Irish, 'ní cheapaim' sounds like 'kneecap him' — which means 'I don't think so.' The pun, like much of their art, is laced with misbehaviour. Yet beneath all the swaggering lampooning , there is a long memory. Irish solidarity with Palestine is not new. Both peoples have known the weight of occupation, the indignity of checkpoints, and the sting of being cast as 'terrorists' while seeking liberation. In the Catholic quarters of Belfast, the Palestinian flag is stitched into the fabric of daily life like a second national emblem. In many neighbourhoods, where the memory of British occupation still looms large, parallels between the Irish Republican struggle and Palestinian resistance feel immediate and lived. The shared history of displacement, state violence, and political vilification forms a bridge that spans continents. Kneecap has reanimated this sentiment in a language of basslines, beats, and unapologetic sloganeering that has proven potent to young audiences. When they stood before 20,000 people at Coachella, and roared that the Palestinians were being bombed from the skies with nowhere to run, they were drawing a bloodline from Derry to Deir al-Balah, to illustrate how the cruelties of colonial occupation have now translated to modern-day war crimes. Our message to London 👇 — KNEECAP (@KNEECAPCEOL) May 24, 2025 The group's own upbringing is rooted in the post-Good Friday Agreement generation, and informs their every move as the grandchildren of insurgency. Móglaí Bap's father, Gearóid Ó Cairealláin, was a giant of the Irish language movement who fought against cultural erasure. His recent death and subsequent eulogising by the president of Ireland, only seems to have furthered the group's resolve. Last year, Kneecap's audacity leapt from stage to screen with the release of their self-titled biopic that chronicled their rise from Belfast's underbelly to the global stage. Premiering at Sundance — where it became the first Irish-language film ever selected — it quickly generated Oscar buzz, and was even made the nomination shortlist. Though it ultimately missed out on a nod, Kneecap marked a watershed moment for Irish-language cinema. Kneecap's genius has been in making the political seem personal, and the personal feel universal. They've threaded together Irish language rights, class warfare, anti-Zionism, drug culture, and nationalist mischief into something that feels utterly of its time: the sound of a generation that's done with polite liberalism and is thirsting for confrontation. Their statements are clearly not careful. At times, they veer towards a hot-headed bluster that invites criticism, as when Mo Chara declared, 'The only good Tory is a dead Tory'. They have since clarified, retracted, contextualised, denied, and even, doubled down. But the thrust remains that this is a group that sees politics as the very foundation to their art. While the likes of Radiohead are now mumbling faint somethings about 'both sides,' after years of Zionist catering, Kneecap has had zero reservations for calling a genocide what it is. They have been using their platform precisely because they know it is precarious and powerful. Critics call them dangerous. But the danger, really, is that they're effective. They've made Gaza the most important thing to care about, and somehow looked incredibly cool doing so. They've lit up the hypocrisy of Western governments that condemn protest in the name of 'security' while bankrolling a war that has killed tens of thousands. And their performances have been a spectacle of catharsis for those who feel ignored by the mainstream discourse. The cultural establishment doesn't quite know what to do with them. Sharon Osbourne called for them to be banned from the United States after their stint at Coachella. Massive Attack came to their defense. Jeremy Corbyn introduced them at another festival. They screen 'F**k Israel, Free Palestine' behind them at shows, and then segue into songs about ketamine and wild nights in Belfast. Are they pranksters? Are they revolutionaries? Are they, in the language of coppers, simply self-proclaimed 'low-life scum'? Kneecap has continually proven how their greatest weapon is their refusal to shut up. It's fitting that a band born of the legacy of kneecaps blown out to keep people quiet has become one of the loudest, cheekiest voices shouting back against genocide .
The Independent
2 days ago
- Entertainment
- The Independent
Kneecap's Móglaí Bap leads ‘free Palestine' chant as Mo Chara in court on terrorism charge
Watch as Kneecap rapper Móglaí Bap lead a 'free Palestine ' chant outside Westminster Magistrates Court court as bandmate Mo Chara appeared on a terror charge. Liam Óg Ó hAnnaidh, better known by his stage name Mo Chara, is accused of displaying a flag in support of Hezbollah at a gig at O2 Forum Kentish Town in November last year. Footage shows bandmate Móglaí Bap shouting 'free Palestine ' to a packed crowd before wading through the sea of supporters whilst continuing the chant. Mr Ó hAnnaidh has been released on unconditional bail until his next hearing on 20 August. Kneecap said they have 'never supported' Hamas or Hezbollah, both of which are banned in the UK.
RTÉ News
5 days ago
- Entertainment
- RTÉ News
Everything you need to know about Kneecap at Fairview Park
Irish hip-hop trio Kneecap are set to take to the stage under a big tent in Dublin's Fairview Park on Thursday, 19 June. The gig comes after a wildly busy and occasionally tumultuous time for the Belfast group, consisting of Móglaí Bap, Mo Chara, and DJ Próvaí. In May, Liam Óg Ó hAnnaidh, whose stage name is Mo Chara, was charged with a terrorism offence over the alleged displaying of a flag in support of Hezbollah at a gig in London last November. The group have denied any wrongdoing and said they intend to defend the charge. Ó hAnnaidh is due to appear at Westminster Magistrates' Court on 18 June, the day before the band's Fairview date. The rapper said he believed the prosecution was designed to "silence us" and prevent them playing Glastonbury Festival, with the band set to make their debut at Worthy Farm on Saturday 28 June with a set on the West Holts stage. Whatever the outcome for Mo Chara on 18 June, the band's Fairview Park date is sure to be a particularly raucous affair. Find out everything you need to know about the hotly-anticipated gig here. When and Where Kneecap will take to the stage at Fairview Park, Dublin, on 19 June 2025. Opening Time of the Venue Gates open at 7pm with the show set to start at 8pm - times are subject to change. No queueing allowed before the gates open. Concert-goers should plan to be within the venue 30 mins before the show starts. There are no re-admissions to the concert. If you leave, there is no re-entry. Getting There As traffic delays are inevitable, concert-goers are encouraged to walk, cycle, use public transport and private coach services. By DART: The nearest station is Clontarf Road Dart Station. By Bus: From Eden Quay: 14, 15, 27a/b From Abbey St Lower: 6, H1, H2, H3, 130 From Talbot St: 42, 43 Please note: For operational reasons, bus stops 519 and 616 will be closed from 10pm – 11pm on concert days. Approach Route The only entrance is at the Annesley Bridge end of Fairview Park. There is no public parking at this event. What is the site layout Can I still buy tickets? Nope! The tickets have long been snapped up for these gigs. Fans can keep an eye on Ticketmaster for official resale tickets and see if they get lucky. Support acts Dublin singer Gemma Dunleavy and post-punk band Gurriers provide support on the night. Age restrictions Under 16's must be accompanied by a parent or guardian over 25, who takes full responsibility and remains with them throughout the event. What else should I be aware of Fairview Park is a standing only venue, and all concerts take place outdoors on grass under canvas. Check the forecast and dress accordingly for Irish weather. Strict security checks will be in operation. Bags larger than A4, glass or cans, umbrellas, alcohol, garden furniture, e-scooters and e-bikes, flares, professional cameras and audio recording equipment will not be permitted.
Irish Independent
09-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Irish Independent
Kneecap and 80s legend Paul Weller share a cuppa in Dublin
The 'modfather' was pictured with two of the three band members at Phibsborough's Bang Bang Cafe on Thursday night. Móglaí Bap, DJ Próvaí and the band's manager Daniel Lambert were reportedly celebrating with Paul after their Irish language film nabbed the top prize at the Celtic Media Awards. Set in west Belfast, the film tells the story of how Mo Chara, DJ Próvaí and Móglaí Bap came together to 'change the sound of Irish music forever". The self-titled movie was awarded the Spirit of the Festival at the celebration of media throughout the Celtic nations and regions. Weller was one of 40 acts who signed an open letter opposing what they claim were efforts to censor the trio due to their political statements during performances. Sharing the snap to Instagram, Bang Bang cafe received numerous messages of support for the musicians, with one writing: 'As if we don't already love Weller enough'. 'Not one bit jealous! Paul Weller is just the greatest!,' added another. Rapper Mo Chara whose real name is Liam Óg ÓhAnnaidh, was handed a terrorism charge by UK police late last month. It follows allegations that a Hezbollah flag was displayed at one of the band's concerts at the O2 Forum in Kentish Town, London, last November. The 27-year-old is due to appear at Westminster Magistrates' Court in London on June 18. ADVERTISEMENT In a statement posted on social media, Kneecap said: 'We deny this 'offence' and will vehemently defend ourselves.' Counter-terrorism police previously also investigated Kneecap after videos emerged allegedly showing the band calling for the deaths of MPs and shouting 'up Hamas, up Hezbollah'. The group apologised to the families of murdered MPs but said footage of the incident had been 'exploited and weaponised', and also said they have 'never supported' Hamas or Hezbollah, which are banned in the UK. In response to the charge, the group said in a social media statement: '14,000 babies are about to die of starvation in Gaza, with food sent by the world sitting on the other side of a wall, and once again the British establishment is focused on us. 'We deny this 'offence' and will vehemently defend ourselves, this is political policing, this is a carnival of distraction. 'We are not the story, genocide is, as they profit from genocide, they use an 'anti-terror law' against us for displaying a flag thrown on stage. A charge not serious enough to even warrant their crown court, instead a court that doesn't have a jury. What's the objective? 'To restrict our ability to travel. To prevent us speaking to young people across the world. To silence voices of compassion. To prosecute artists who dare speak out. 'Instead of defending innocent people, or the principles of international law they claim to uphold, the powerful in Britain have abetted slaughter and famine in Gaza, just as they did in Ireland for centuries. Then, like now, they claim justification. 'The IDF units they arm and fly spy plane missions for are the real terrorists, the whole world can see it.' The controversy has not stopped their rising popularity and they are set to play one of the biggest dates in their career to 12,500 fans at London's Wembley Arena next September 18. Kneecap were cancelled from the TRNSMT concert line-up in Glasgow, which they were due to play in July, due to safety concerns from UK police according to the festival. However, Glastonbury has confirmed band will not be cancelled from the festival and have put the group on a larger slot on the Saturday afternoon at West Holts Stage.
Irish Post
03-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Irish Post
Kneecap announce London gig which will be their ‘biggest ever' headline show
KNEECAP have confirmed a London gig this year which will be their 'biggest headline show' to date. The Belfast rap group, made up of Mo Chara, Móglaí Bap and DJ Próvaí, revealed the gig via their social media platforms today. It will take place at Wembley Arena on Thursday, September 18, the band said, describing the location as 'the belly of the beast'. Pre-sale tickets will be available from tomorrow while general release tickets go on sale from Friday, June 6. All London heads...💥 Our biggest ever headline show outside of Ireland will take place on September 18th at the OVO Wembley Arena. 🔥 - Pre-sale is tomorrow (Wednesday) at 10am in our WhatsApp channel. - General sale is 10am this Friday. The belly of the beast - let's go! — KNEECAP (@KNEECAPCEOL) June 3, 2025 The announcement comes after the band played a sold out set at the Wide Awake Festival in London's Brockwell park on May 23. Their planned gig at the TRNSMT festival in Glasgow, which was cancelled after police raised safety concerns, has been rescheduled to July 8 at the city's 02 Academy. Kneecap's Mo Chara pictured on stage at the Wide Awake Festival 2025 at Brockwell Park in south London on May 23, 2025 Tickets for the new gig sold out in 30 seconds, according to the band. Prior to that the band have a confirmed slot at this year's Glastonbury festival - where they will play the West Holts stage on Saturday, June 28. Last month the Metropolitan Police's Counter Terrorism Command charged band member Mo Chara, real name Liam Óg Ó hAnnaidh, with a terror offence over a Palestinian flag displayed at a show at the O2 Forum in Kentish Town, London on November 21, 2024. The force said that the 27-year-old displayed the flag "in such a way or in such circumstances as to arouse reasonable suspicion that he is a supporter of a proscribed organisation, namely Hezbollah". He is due to appear at Westminster Magistrates' Court on Wednesday, June 18. See More: Gig, Kneecap, London, Wembley
