Music Marr comes out in defense of Kneecap and freedom of expression

Johnny Marrformer guitarist of Smithspublicly positioned itself in support of the Irish group Kneecapwhich has faced pressures and criticism for its pro-Palestinian stance, including requests for its presentation in the GLASTONBURY 2025 be censored.

Despite the controversy, the festival kept the group in the official program, and the BBC He confirmed that he will convey the show, but requests have emerged to excerpt with political speeches to be silenced or taken from live coverage.

In response, Marr published a note defending the right to political expression on stage:

I played many times in Glastonburyand the festival has always had this political aspect. He was founded as a space of freedom and activism. In 1984, I only agreed to play there with the Smiths Because at that moment this was a political act.

The musician continued saying that his position has been known for decades:

We live disturbing times, but those who have been with my work for 40 years know that my posture has always been clear. Oppression fears art. Deeply respect artists who use their voice to denounce injustices, promote empathy and give room to those who do not have.

Marr ended his statement with a direct position:

I am next to my audience and the musicians who ask for the immediate end of atrocities and for a free Palestine.

THE GLASTONBURY 2025 It happens between June 25 and 29, and will have names like Olivia Rodrigo, The 1975, Neil Young and the Chrome Hearts, Charli XCX, Raye, The Prodigy, Defton, Turnstile, Supergras and many others.

+++ Read more: Why did Morrissey go a meeting of The Smiths despite a fight with Johnny Marr? Singer explains

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+++ Read more: Kneecap is barred from a festival in Scotland for ‘safety risk’