John Legend’s Controversial Concert in Rwanda
John of Legends defended his decision to hold a concert in Rwanda, despite the country's participation in the war with the Democratic Republic of Congo.
The singer spoke at the BK Arena in Kigali, Rwanda last week (February 21) as part of the release of 2025. Move Africa. The field is reported Bi -bi -x. Recently, the M23 Rebels, supported by Rwanda, seized the two largest cities rich in minerals in the east of the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Data indicates that Rwanda sent about 4,000 troops across the border to support the rebels.
Humanitarian Concerns and Artist Responsibilities
According to United Nations, hundreds of thousands of civilians have fled their homes, with a notable increase in violence, including the rape of children.
Speaking with Bi -bi -x, the legend addressed his decision in Rwanda: “I do not believe that we must punish the people of Rwanda and punish the people of other countries when we do not agree with their leaders.”
He mentioned that he was not compensated for the performance, explaining his desire to assist in “developing tourist opportunities” on the African continent, which is often overlooked by musicians during world tours.
“I know what is happening (in the heart of the Congo), and I understand the calls for me not to proceed with this show, but I genuinely believe that the mission of Africa’s movement remains significant,” he stated.
Many argue that the musician, renowned for his impressive stature and accolades—being a winner of the Emmy, Grammy, Oscar, and Tony—had a unique opportunity to make a strong statement by opting out of the show.
Belgian activist Deniz Vodes called on Legend to withdraw from the concert, tweeting: “Performing under the banner of a government complicit in war crimes, genocide, and mass atrocities in the Eastern DRC is akin to cooperating with oppression itself.”
Dear @JOHNLEGEND, I am not a fan and do not listen to your music, but like many before me, I am turning to draw your attention to the ongoing violations of human rights in the Democratic Republic of the Congo #DRC. The atrocities, fueled @Rwandagov under the leadership…pic.twitter.com/6sni1opgt
– Denise Zaneza (@dzaneza) February 7, 2025
I recently promoted my show in Rwanda without realizing that there is a constant conflict between Rwanda and Congo. I will never be insensitive to real-world issues, and I sincerely apologize if this appears that way. I genuinely had no idea this was happening. My heart…
– TEMS (@Temsbaby) January 30, 2025
Additionally, Grammy-winning artist Tems chose not to perform in Rwanda and tweeted, “I recently promoted my show in Rwanda without realizing that there is a constant conflict between Rwanda and the Congo. I will never be insensitive to real-world issues, and I sincerely apologize if this appears that way. I genuinely had no idea this was happening. My heart goes out to the victims. Conflict is serious, and I sincerely hope and pray for peace during this time.”
Legend typically refrains from voicing his political opinions. Previously, he expressed criticism towards Donald Trump and fell out with Kanye West, a collaborator from years back.
Reflecting on how Trump influenced the dissolution of his friendship with West—who is now known as Ye—Legend noted in the AX Files podcast: “(Kanye and I) aren’t friends like we used to be. I honestly believe that our public disagreements over his political run and support of Trump became too much for us to maintain our friendship, to be sincere.”
https://www.nme.com/news/music/john-legend-defends-his-decision-to-perform-at-rwanda-concert-during-war-3840920?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=john-legend-defends-his-decision-to-perform-at-rwanda-concert-during-war
