Knee Cup Reaction to Coachella Controversy
The Knee Cup responded to allegations that their performance at Coachella 2025 was cut after they began singing about former Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher.
- READ MORE: Coachella 2025 Weekend One: Line-Up, Time Times and How to Watch Online
The Irish group took the stage at the California festival last night (April 11), performing on the Sonora scene to kick off their set.
Political Statements on Stage
In a bold move, they referenced the late UK leader Thatcher, who they had previously labeled with profanity. They declared, “Here, if anyone was wondering, Margaret Thatcher is still dead,” which sparked a strong reaction from the audience, leading to a sing-along of “Maggie’s in the Box” to the tune of KC and the Sunshine Band’s “Get Down Tonight.”
The trio, consisting of Mo Chara, Móglaí Bap, and DJ Próvaí, has long been critical of the former conservative leader and is known for their outspoken political views, using their platform to express support for Palestine.
Following their performance, the group took to X to address claims that their segment was cut from the live broadcast, along with their message for “Free Palestine.”
Not the only thing that was cut out; the mentions of the US-supported genocide in Gaza never appeared on screen.
Let’s go back next Friday for Coachella, and it will be sorted 🇵🇸
GRMA to everyone who set up a tent 🔥 https://t.co/r8egq5ls9q
– Knee Cup (@kneecapceool) April 12, 2025
They expressed, “Not the only thing that was cut out; discussions regarding the US-supported genocide in Gaza somehow never showed up on the screens. We’ll be back next Friday for Coachella, and it will be sorted. GRMA to everyone who set up a tent.” You can watch their performance here.
Continued Support for Palestine
The group’s long-standing support for Palestine has led them to amplify their message through social media and high-profile performances. In their NME cover last year, they condemned what they label the “occupation and genocide” of Israel in Gaza, raising nearly £100,000 for a charity in the Aida refugee camp.
Recently, they criticized Israel for violating the ceasefire in Gaza and called attention to the plight of “the most vulnerable people on Earth.” They also took aim at Irish Prime Minister Micheál Martin, calling him out for his recent visit to the White House to meet with US President Donald Trump.
In other festival highlights, Lady Gaga dazzled with an elaborate five-act performance, while A.G. Cook collaborated with Danny Brown, and Charlie XCX executed remixes of “Party 4 U.”
Billy Joe Armstrong of Green Day even joined Go-Go on stage to perform their 1984 hit “Head Over Heels.” Later today (April 12), performers include Travis Scott, Green Day, Charlie XCX, Jimmy Eat World, Clairo, Japanese Breakfast, Sam Fender, Weezer, and many more.
YouTube will stream the festival live via the Coachella YouTube Channel. The Coachella 2024 lineup was headlined by Lana Del Rey, Doja Cat, and Tyler, the Creator, marking a notable return.
https://www.nme.com/news/music/kneecap-respond-to-claims-their-coachella-stream-was-cut-over-anti-thatcher-chant-3854362?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=kneecap-respond-to-claims-their-coachella-stream-was-cut-over-anti-thatcher-chant
