Louis Tomlinson and Franz Ferdinand among stars to cancel shows in Russia
Louis Tomlinson, Nick Cave and Franz Ferdinand are among big-name musicians cancelling performances in Russia in protest of the invasion of Ukraine.
More and more musicians are coming forward to show their solidarity with the Ukrainian people, hundreds of thousands of whom have fled to neighbouring countries.
As Russia continues its offensive on cities around Ukraine – committing potential war crimes in the process – here are the singers and performers pulling out of tours.
Louis Tomlinson
The former One Direction star, 30, said his “thoughts go out to the people of Ukraine and all those suffering from this needless war.”
Tomlinson was due to perform at the Stereo Plaza venue in the Ukrainian capital on Monday July 4 before heading to Russia to play at Circus City Hall in Moscow on Wednesday July 6.
However, the events have now been cancelled with Tomlinson’s official website showing a “sale paused” message for both shows.
The singer said in a statement posted on Instagram: “Due to the recent events in Ukraine, I have to sadly announce that my tour shows in Moscow and Kyiv are cancelled until further notice.
“The safety of my fans is my main priority and my thoughts go out to the people of Ukraine and all those suffering from this needless war.”
Iggy Pop
The US musician, whose real name is James Newell Osterberg Jr, shared a message on Twitter, saying: “The festival appearance of Iggy Pop in Moscow on the 10th of July 2022 is canceled.
“In light of current events, this is necessary. Our thoughts are with the Ukrainians and all the brave people who oppose this violence and seek peace.”
Green Day
American rock band Green Day are also among the acts to have cancelled scheduled performances in Russia in response to its forces entering neighbouring Ukraine.
Nick Cave
Nick Cave and the Bad Seeds had been scheduled to play shows at Moscow’s Bol Festival and Kyiv’s Palace of Sports in summer.
However, a statement posted on the band’s social media accounts said the concerts had been cancelled “in light of current events.”
It continued: “Our thoughts and love go out to the brave people of Ukraine, their heroic leader, and all those suffering from this senseless war.
“Ukraine, we stand with you, and with all those in Russia who oppose this brutal act, and we pray that this madness is brought to a close soon.”
Franz Ferdinand
The band, who have enjoyed chart success with songs including Take Me Out and Do You Want To, said that the “only reason” for axing the shows was “the invasion of Ukraine by the Russian state”.
With a greatest hits album due for later in March, a concert tour is scheduled across Europe starting from April and stretching into November.
They were due to perform in St Petersburg on June 29, before going to a gig in Moscow on July 1.
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However, the band tweeted: “We are cancelling our Russian shows that are scheduled for this summer. The only reason for this is the invasion of Ukraine by the Russian state.”
They made clear: “We love Russia. This great country has inspired our band through its art and literature, and since we first played there seventeen years ago, we have built a rich and deep relationship with our Russian fans.
“Since Thursday morning, we have spoken to many of our friends in Russia via social media and have encountered unanimous opposition to this violence and solidarity with our Ukrainian friends.
“We know you see the madness of your country’s leadership. We know you do not want war.
“We do not want war. Despite the tragedy of this situation, we still burn a flame of optimism in our hearts and look forward to the day when we can return in a time of peace to share the joy of music together again.”
Bring Me The Horizon
The Metal Rockers, who found recent success after a collaboration with Ed Sheeran, said: “In solidarity with Ukraine and to stand against the atrocities being committed by Russian leadership, we must cancel our forthcoming dates in Russia, Belarus and Ukraine.”
The band described Ukraine as a “very special place” for them and said they are “in awe” of the bravery shown by the people.
Yung Blud
The 24-year-old UK singer, whose real name is Dominic Harrison, said he is “heartbroken” to be cancelling his Russian shows.
“I know the vicious and brutal acts of the Russian regime in Ukraine over the past week do not reflect the attitudes and ideals of the beautiful people who I have met in Russia,” he said on witter.