Numerous musicians are urging Live Nation to cease its operations in Israel. This collective action is part of the Musicians For Palestine campaign. High-profile artists, including Massive Attack and Brian Eno, have signed an open letter demanding the entertainment giant abandon its Israeli subsidiary.
Open Letter Against Live Nation Israel
The open letter condemns Live Nation Israel for allegedly glorifying actions of the Israeli military, which has claimed the lives of over 70,000 Palestinians in Gaza. The letter further asserts that the company has engaged in “artwashing” Israeli apartheid and genocide.
The letter emphasizes the need for Live Nation Entertainment to:
- Drop Live Nation Israel.
- Implement policies that prevent complicity in oppression globally.
- Honor the authoritative demands from Palestinian civil society.
Brian Eno’s Role in Advocacy
Brian Eno, a notable figure in this movement, previously hosted the “Together For Palestine” charity concert in London in September. The initiative aimed to raise funds for Palestinian-led charities. Eno collaborated on the charity single “Lullaby,” featuring Neneh Cherry and Nadine Shah, with all proceeds directed to the Together For Palestine Fund, which supports three primary charities:
- Taawon
- Palestine Children’s Relief Fund
- Palestine Medical Relief Service
Broader Movements in the Music Community
This push against Live Nation is not isolated. Earlier this year, a coalition of artists, including Massive Attack and Björk, participated in the No Music For Genocide streaming boycott. The backlash extends into events like the Eurovision Song Contest, which has faced criticism for continuing to include Israel in its lineup for the upcoming 70th edition in May 2026.
In response to the growing pressure, five countries—Ireland, Spain, the Netherlands, Slovenia, and Iceland—decided to withdraw from the event. Eurovision director Martin Green acknowledged the controversy, insisting that music can unite people even amidst political challenges.
Response from Contest Organizers
Controversy further heightened with statements from the Austrian public broadcaster, ORF. They confirmed that they would allow the Palestinian flag during the Eurovision event and would not censor any audience reactions, including booing directed at Israel. Executive producer Michael Kroen stated,
“We will not sugarcoat anything or avoid showing what is happening, because our task is to show things as they are.”
This response reflects a significant shift in how music and political discourse intersect, as artists and organizers alike navigate the complex landscape of international relations and social justice.
