Wireless Festival defends Kanye West booking amid backlash

Photo: facebook.com/WirelessFestival, photo editor: Adelina Mamedova

Melvin Benn, Wireless Festival’s managing director, has defended the decision to include rapper Kanye West, also known as Ye, in the festival’s program as a headliner, the BBC reported.

West’s possible performance at the London festival in July has drawn criticism from British politicians, sponsors and Jewish organizations due to his past antisemitic and pro-Nazi remarks. These included releasing a song titled «Heil Hitler» and selling swastika-themed merchandise.

Benn acknowledged that West’s previous comments were offensive but said he believes in offering second chances, referring to West’s apologies. He stressed that the festival is providing a platform for music, not for political views and noted that West has a legal right to perform in the UK, though authorities are reviewing whether he should be granted entry.

Jewish groups have strongly objected, criticizing the festival for «failing to fully recognize the seriousness of West’s past behavior.» Phil Rosenberg, president of the Board of Deputies of British Jews, even called for West’s invitation to be withdrawn.

Amid rising tensions over the festival, some sponsors, including Pepsi, Rockstar Energy and Diageo, have already pulled out from the event. Meanwhile, Wireless Festival in Finsbury Park usually attracts up to 150,000 attendees each year and is one of the most well-known musical events in the U.K.