Massive Attack reacts to Singapore ban over Palestine chant

A UK rock group has publicly expressed that it was “surprised and disappointed” by the way it was treated after chanting “free Palestine” during a recent concert in the United Kingdom. The band, which performed at the city’s annual summer music festival on 15 June, said the protest was a spontaneous reaction to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East and was not intended to disrupt the event. According to the group’s spokesperson, security staff escorted the performers from the stage and the venue’s management issued a statement condemning the chant as “inappropriate” for the setting.

The incident drew criticism from fans and human‑rights organisations, who argued that the band’s political expression fell within the right to free speech. The festival organisers, however, cited their policy on political content and the need to maintain a safe environment for all attendees. The band has called for a review of the venue’s guidelines and has indicated that it will consider legal action if it believes its rights were infringed.

In a statement released later that day, the band thanked supporters for their “continued solidarity” and pledged to continue advocating for peace while respecting the rules of the venues they play. The incident has sparked a broader debate about the place of political statements in live music events across the UK.