Today in Focus

How Kneecap became the most controversial band in the UK

12 snips
May 2, 2025
Join Rory Carroll, The Guardian's Ireland correspondent, and Roisin Lanigan, an Irish writer from West Belfast, as they explore the provocative rise of the rap group Kneecap. They discuss how Kneecap's music blends humor and political commentary, reflecting on Northern Ireland's history. The duo delves into how their art challenges political figures and intertwines with cultural identity, particularly through their use of the Irish language. Controversies abound around their performances, highlighting the complexities of artistic expression in a turbulent socio-political landscape.
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INSIGHT

Subverting Republican Tropes

  • Kneecap reclaims Republican imagery like kneecapping and balaclavas, subverting their violent historical context.
  • Their name references IRA punishment methods, blending history with punk rebellion and irony.
INSIGHT

Irish Language Revival Through Rap

  • Rapping in Irish is extraordinarily unusual and gives Kneecap a novel energy and cultural significance.
  • They are part of a modern revival of the Irish language with punk attitude and brio.
ANECDOTE

Kneecap's Origin Film Impact

  • The origin film about Kneecap is a semi-fictional story showing their early days and became critically acclaimed.
  • Even older audiences found it funny despite mature content, boosting their visibility especially in the US.
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