A London-based musical act is facing a torrent of condemnation after a disturbing on-stage incident that has been widely condemned as beyond the pale.
Bob Vylan, the grime-punk duo comprised of Bobby and Bobbie Vylan, has ignited a firestorm of controversy following a performance where frontman Bobby Vylan made light of political violence.
The incident occurred during their supporting set for American band Turnstile at the iconic Alexandra Palace. In a video that has since gone viral on social media, Bobby Vylan is seen addressing the crowd before their song 'He's A Man' from the 2022 album 'Bob Vylan Presents The Price Of Life'.
In a moment that has been described as shameful and dangerous, the singer is heard announcing, "This next song goes out to Charlie Kirk... because I heard that motherf***er got shot." The declaration was met with a mix of cheers and stunned silence from the audience.
A 'Joke' Based on Fiction
The remark was a clear reference to a completely fabricated story that originated on the satirical website The Onion, which published a false article claiming the Turning Point USA founder had been assassinated. Bobby Vylan later attempted to clarify the comment in a since-deleted social media post, stating it was a "joke about The Onion article" and not a genuine call for violence.
However, the attempted justification has done little to quell the anger. Critics were swift to lambast the performer, accusing him of normalising and celebrating political assassination, regardless of the intended satirical target's ideology.
The Backlash Erupts
The public reaction was immediate and severe. Social media platforms were flooded with criticism from across the political spectrum. Many commentators expressed horror at the glorification of violence, emphasising that such rhetoric has no place in public discourse.
One social media user captured the prevailing sentiment, stating, "It doesn't matter if you disagree with Charlie Kirk's politics... joking about the assassination of a political figure is utterly deplorable." The incident has sparked a broader debate about the boundaries of artistic expression and the responsibility performers hold when addressing a large audience.
The band, known for its politically charged lyrics and anti-establishment stance, has found itself at the centre of a scandal that threatens to overshadow its musical output. As the video continues to circulate online, the pressure on the duo to issue a formal apology is mounting significantly.
