Kneecap leads crowd in anti-Margaret Thatcher chant at Coachella
- Kneecap led a crowd in singing an anti-Margaret Thatcher chant during Coachella 2025.
- The chant was performed to the tune of a KC and the Sunshine Band song, reflecting the group’s critical stance on Thatcher.
- This performance underscores the blend of music and political expression at major cultural events like Coachella.
In the United States, specifically at Coachella 2025, the Irish rap group Kneecap engaged the crowd in a chant targeting the late former British Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher. This incident took place during their performance on April 13, 2025, showcasing the trio's ongoing criticism of Thatcher. The group, known for their politically charged lyrics and significant following, particularly among younger audiences, celebrated their rise to fame after winning a BAFTA for their biopic, which aimed to promote the Irish language During the chant, audience members enthusiastically joined in singing 'Maggie’s in a Box' to the tune of the 1983 hit 'Give It Up' by KC and the Sunshine Band, highlighting Kneecap's ability to engage and energize fans through their politically charged performance. This event was significant not only for the music festival but also for highlighting the group's artistic approach to addressing historical political figures and their legacies, especially Thatcher, who remains a contentious figure in Irish and British history. The performance drew attention amidst a vibrant festival scene that included other notable acts such as Green Day, Lady Gaga, Charli XCX, and many more. The festival has been rife with mixed experiences, including complaints from attendees about facilities and logistical issues, which some likened to the infamous Fyre Festival. Kneecap's political message, contrasting with these practical concerns, reminded audiences of the power of music and performance art to address social and political issues. The festival's atmosphere was also permeated with moments of nostalgia and pop culture references, as artists from various genres took the stage and performed collaborative pieces. This context deepened the impact of Kneecap's performance, emphasizing the intersection of entertainment and political commentary in contemporary music and culture, as they continue to challenge and provoke discussions surrounding figures like Thatcher and the implications of their leadership.