Italy has halted two upcoming concerts featuring American rap artists Kanye West and Travis Scott in July in Reggio Emilia, a city in the northern region. The decision to cancel the events was made by local prefect Salvatore Angieri, citing concerns over public safety and potential disruptions, including the possibility of protests.
Kanye West, also known as Ye, has faced a series of cancellations throughout Europe this summer due to past controversial statements, including remarks deemed antisemitic and the use of Nazi imagery in his content. Travis Scott, on the other hand, has been under scrutiny for safety issues at his shows following a tragic incident at the Astroworld festival in Houston in 2021, where 10 people lost their lives and hundreds were injured.
The Pulse of Gaia Festival, where Scott was scheduled to perform on July 17 at the 103,000-seat RCF Arena, and Kanye West’s appearance the following day have been called off. The decision came after requests from consumer group CODACONS and the Jewish community in Modena and Reggio Emilia, expressing specific concerns about Kanye West.
Authorities pointed out the proximity of the two concerts and the anticipated large crowd within a short time frame as reasons for the ban. They also highlighted the cancellation of other Kanye West shows in Europe and the perceived risk of protests. Despite facing restrictions in some countries, Kanye West has attributed his controversial remarks to untreated bipolar disorder and continues to perform in locations where he is welcomed, including an upcoming concert in Istanbul.
No official statements have been released by Kanye West, Travis Scott, or the event organizers in Italy regarding the cancellations.
