Jonny Greenwood, the guitarist and keyboardist of Radiohead, has spoken out against what he describes as censorship and intimidation after two concerts he was scheduled to perform with Israeli musician Dudu Tassa were canceled. The shows were set to take place in June at Bristol Beacon’s Lantern Hall and London’s Hackney Church. The cancellations came after the venues received credible threats, leading them to decide it was unsafe to go ahead with the performances.
Greenwood has collaborated with Tassa for over ten years, and they recently released an album together titled "Jarak Qaribak." In a joint statement with Tassa and their bandmates, Greenwood expressed disappointment over the cancellations, stating that the venues and their staff faced enough threats to justify the decision. He emphasized that promoters should not be expected to ensure the safety of artists and audiences in such a volatile situation.
The Palestinian Campaign for the Academic and Cultural Boycott of Israel (Pacbi), part of the Boycott, Divestment and Sanctions movement, welcomed the cancellation. They argued that the concerts would have served to "whitewash" the ongoing conflict in Gaza. Greenwood and Tassa’s statement acknowledged that while some may view the cancellation as a victory, they see it as a loss for artistic expression.
The musicians argued that preventing artists from performing restricts free expression and silences voices. They believe that art should transcend political boundaries and that musicians should be free to connect with audiences regardless of their nationality or government actions. They lamented being criticized from both sides of the political spectrum, noting that some on the right disapproved of their inclusive music, while others on the left accused them of trying to absolve guilt through their performances.
Greenwood’s past performances in Israel have also drawn criticism from pro-Palestinian groups, highlighting the ongoing tension surrounding artists and their choices in politically sensitive regions. The Diocese of London, responsible for the Hackney Church venue, confirmed the cancellation and stated that ticket holders would receive refunds.
As this situation unfolds, it raises questions about the intersection of art, politics, and safety, and the challenges artists face in expressing themselves in a divided world.