Brian Eno, Robert Del Naja of Massive Attack, and Others Issue Open Letter to Field Day Regarding KKR Ownership
Field Day Festival Faces Pressure to Distance from Controversial Parent Company KKR
In a striking move that underscores the intersection of music, activism, and corporate responsibility, a coalition of over 50 artists—including the iconic Brian Eno and Massive Attack’s Robert Del Naja—has rallied to urge the London-based Field Day festival to publicly sever ties with its parent company, KKR. The call comes amid rising tensions surrounding KKR’s financial connections to Israeli firms operating in contested territories and its involvement with weapon manufacturers.
Acquired by KKR in June 2024, Superstruct Entertainment, the parent company of Field Day, now finds itself at the center of a growing storm. The artists, organized by Sisu—a collective devoted to uplifting women and non-binary DJs—expressed their solidarity with the Palestinian cause, citing both moral and legal imperatives for the festival to take a stand.
In an open letter, the musicians articulate an urgent message: “While we understand that this acquisition was not the choice of Field Day, it nonetheless means that the festival is now implicated in the crimes against humanity of apartheid and genocide.” They reference recent International Court of Justice rulings asserting that Israel is plausibly committing genocide and guilty of apartheid, calling for Field Day to acknowledge its "profound legal and moral obligation" to act.
Notable signatories of the letter—including celebrated DJs Ben UFO, Midland, and Pangaea—emphasize that festivals should serve as spaces for celebration and community, not as platforms for "fundraising opportunities for genocide." They express disappointment that Field Day is now overshadowed by these troubling corporate ties.
The artists demand that Field Day not only distance itself from KKR but also adopt an ethical programming policy, align with Boycott, Divestment and Sanctions (BDS) guidelines, and actively engage with artists and workers about these issues. The gravity of the situation was underscored by mentions of similar moves, notably by Boiler Room, which recently issued a statement addressing its own parent company’s connections to Israeli investments.
As the festival landscape continues to evolve, the call from this coalition raises pivotal questions about the ethical responsibilities of music festivals and their affiliations. Will Field Day heed this call for action, or will it remain mired in controversy? The world is watching closely as the narrative unfolds, illustrating the powerful role of artists in advocacy and the urgent need for corporate accountability in the entertainment sector.
For those interested in reading the full letter, click here.
