Kanye West Postpones Concert in Marseille Amid Controversy
The artist formerly known as Kanye West has decided not to perform in Marseille, France, following the announcement from local authorities seeking to ban the concert.
This decision comes on the heels of his recent barring from entering the UK, where he was supposed to headline the now-canceled Wireless Festival in July due to ongoing backlash related to his past anti-Semitic remarks.
In a message on social media platform X, he stated, “After much consideration, it is my sole decision to postpone my performance in Marseille, France, until further notice.”
He added, “I know it will take time for you to understand my sincerity in making amends.”
The 48-year-old artist was set to entertain at Stade Velodrome on June 11, according to a report from The Associated Press. French Interior Minister Laurent Nuñez has vowed to explore “all possibilities” to guarantee the cancellation of the show.
The mayor of Marseille, Benoît Payan, has been outspoken against the rapper’s appearance in the city, emphasizing its reputation as a multicultural hub with a deep-rooted history of immigration.
“I refuse to turn Marseille into a showcase for those who promote hatred and unashamed Nazism,” Payan expressed. “Kanye West is not welcome at the Velodrome, the temple of our community and the home of all of Marseille.”
Despite the cancellations in both the UK and France, West is expected to make appearances elsewhere in the upcoming weeks.
His official website lists several European dates, including performances in Istanbul, Arnhem, Reggio Emilia, and Madrid, as well as a scheduled performance in New Delhi on May 23.
In recent months, he has faced extensive criticism for his anti-Semitic comments and his admiration for Adolf Hitler. Last year marked the release of a song titled “Heil Hitler” and the promotion of swastika T-shirts on his website.
Australia also canceled his musician’s visa in July following the release of that single, reflecting ongoing scrutiny regarding his previous statements.
