Bob Vylan to Headline Shindig Festival After Past Controversy
A Controversial Past
The Glastonbury Chant
Last summer, the UK rap-punk duo Bob Vylan made headlines during a live-streamed set at Glastonbury Festival. They led the crowd in chanting “Death to the IDF,” referring to the Israel Defense Forces during the war in Gaza.
Backlash and Condemnation
The chant was widely condemned. Glastonbury co-organiser Emily Eavis and Prime Minister Keir Starmer both criticised the performance. The incident also created negative press for the BBC, which had streamed the set.
Fallout and Police Investigation
Festival Cancellations
Following the controversy, several other UK and European festivals cancelled Bob Vylan’s upcoming appearances.
Police Step In
Avon & Somerset Police launched an investigation to determine if the chant constituted illegal hate speech or incitement to violence.
By December, police announced their conclusion: the chant did not meet the criminal threshold needed for a prosecution.
Back on Stage: Shindig Festival 2025
Festival’s Strong Support
Despite the past, Shindig Festival has booked Bob Vylan as a headliner for its 2025 event. Organisers praised them as “one of the most vital, fearless and electrifying live acts in the UK right now.”
They stated the band is known for “high-energy, sharp lyricism” and using music to spark conversation. The festival’s philosophy is that “art should challenge as well as unite.”
Local Authority’s Stance
Licence Granted
Wiltshire Council confirmed that Shindig Festival was granted a premises licence in February 2025. The annual event runs from Thursday to Monday at Charlton Park Estate near Malmesbury.
Safety and the Law
Cllr Paul Sample, responsible for public protection, explained the council’s role:
- The council does not choose the artists.
- An Event Safety Advisory Group, involving police, ambulance, and fire services, will review the festival’s safety plans.
- The council’s focus is on ensuring all relevant laws and safety regulations are followed.
“Wiltshire Council… will work closely with colleagues in other organisations to ensure all relevant legislation is complied with,” Cllr Sample said.
Image Credit: www.wiltshiretimes.co.uk
