Jeremy Corbyn has thrown some unexpected praise toward Kneecap and Bob Vylan, backing the way both groups have channelled their pro Palestine views through their art.
Speaking on the 101 Part Time Jobs podcast, the former Labour leader dug into the relationship between music and politics, a space both bands have been dominating with sharp, unapologetic commentary.
Corbyn didn’t shy away from acknowledging how their message has shaped public perception. “It has been the making of those bands, actually,” he said, pointing to the way Kneecap and Bob Vylan have woven activism into their creative DNA.
“Kneecap and Bobby Vylan have done well out of it, in a good way… they’ve done it in a very good way.”
It’s a stance that aligns with Corbyn’s long held belief that musicians have a responsibility to speak up. Asked whether artists should use their platform, he said it was “absolutely crucial”, adding that he saw nothing wrong with musicians condemning what’s happening in Gaza or donating proceeds to support refugees.
He also shouted out Joan Baez, a lifelong activist, arguing that she has “probably influenced far more people than 1,000 speeches from 10,000 politicians”.
The conversation arrives at a tense moment for politically outspoken artists, Kneecap recently had a terrorism charge against member Mo Chara thrown out, while Bob Vylan continue to face scrutiny over chants during their Glastonbury set, a performance that pushed political pressure onto their later tour dates.
Both acts deny supporting violence, instead framing their work as satire and social critique.
Corbyn’s comments echo what he told crowds at Wide Awake earlier this year, when he urged live music fans to support “people in a desperate situation in Gaza” and called for accountability around British military involvement.
He also reiterated the importance of protecting music venues, describing them as vital spaces for young creatives.
RELATED
MORE IN News
