A controversial hip hop act has announced Southampton as the first of twelve UK dates in November.
Belfast trio Kneecap combine English and Irish language rap with abrasive electronic production and satirical spoken word, creating what critics call a confrontational style.
It has earned them music industry acclaim but also disapproval from some commentators who regard themes, such as Irish reunification and pro-Palestinian messaging, as politically charged.
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The band is made up of Móglaí Bap, Mo Chara and DJ Próvaí and drew a large crowd at last year’s Glastonbury festival, although the BBC did not broadcast their set live, instead making an edited version available on demand afterwards.
In May 2025, Mo Chara was charged under Section 13 of the Terrorism Act 2000 after allegedly displaying a Hezbollah flag at a gig in London in November 2024. The case was later dismissed on procedural grounds.
Meanwhile, band mate DJ Próvaí is known for wearing an Irish tricolour balaclava, which originally was to conceal his identity as a teacher while on stage, as well as being part of the group’s visual identity.
Their songs include titles such as Get Your Brits Out, which is widely interpreted by listeners as referencing opposition to British rule in Northern Ireland. Last year, the group said they were prevented from performing in Canada, while authorities in Hungary also blocked their appearance.
In June 2024 a grant of nearly £15,000 was withdrawn after UK Government intervention, but after a subsequent court ruling in the band’s favour, the funds were later released, and the group donated the full amount to two youth organisations in Northern Ireland working with Protestant and Catholic communities.
The band performed at this year’s Reading and Leeds festivals, which took place over last weekend's bank holiday. Their second album Fenian was released in May and reached number 2 in the Official Albums Chart.
Kneecap play O2 Guildhall Southampton on Saturday November 28. Tickets are due to go on general sale on Friday (September 4) at 10am.
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