EXCLUSIVE: Despite their recent controversy, Kneecap’s strong political statements and bold actions at their live performances may unexpectedly help them in the future
Kneecap’s controversial behaviour has brought them a lot of attention.
Celebrity PR specialist Kayley Cornelius spoke to Daily Star about Kneecap’s recent controversy and discussed how their recent backlash against the band has had a knock-on effect on their fanbase.
She said: “As PRs, political stances or statements are always our biggest headache. They’re one of the few situations where it’s impossible to keep everyone happy and you’re guaranteed to ruffle a few feathers.”
“However, in Kneecap’s case, it could be their strong political messaging that ends up salvaging their music career, should they be shut out by the mainstream media.”
Kayley noted that they’ve had a “turbulent” time recently after being dropped from Eden Sessions and having their concert footage assessed by counter-terrorism police. One band member allegedly said: “The only good Tory is a dead Tory” and: “Kill your local MP” while performing at a gig.
Kneecap recently released a statement saying that they reject “any suggestion that we would seek to incite violence against any MP or individual. Ever” and also said that “an extract of footage, deliberately taken out of all context, is now being exploited and weaponised, as if it were a call to action”.
The members of Kneecap have also apologised to the families of murdered MPs, including those of Jo Cox and Sir David Amess: “To the Amess and Cox families, we send our heartfelt apologies, we never intended to cause you hurt.”
However, their actions appear to have resulted in some new fans: “They seem to have built a strong online following, not necessarily from fans of their music but from people who align with the political points they’re making and the global issues they’re highlighting.”
“It’s certainly possible for Kneecap to continue as an independent band outside of the festival scene and mainstream radio, but how successful that will be in the long run depends on how well they manage to keep this new wave of supporters engaged. Personally, I don’t see it as a sustainable strategy.”
Kayley urged the band to remember that “many of their online supporters are likely engaging with the headlines,” which means they may not be sustainable fans in the long run.
“That doesn’t always translate into fans willing to buy tour tickets or merchandise. Once the media cycle moves on, a lot of that support could easily fizzle out.”
“For up-and-coming bands like this, slots at major festivals are key to reaching new audiences, being noticed by industry professionals, and being offered further opportunities.”
Kayley said that “radio airplay, feature interviews, and royalties from things like adverts” are a significant revenue stream for many artists at the moment.
“So realistically, no band can afford to lose that level of exposure and support.”
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Source: Celebrities - dailystar.co.uk
