Bobby Vylan at Glastonbury Festival, June 28, 2025 (Ben Birchall/PA Images)
Bob Vylan tops charts amid backlash over pro-Palestine stance
British punk-rap duo Bob Vylan have reclaimed the number one spot on the UK Hip Hop and R&B Albums Chart with their latest release Humble As The Sun, despite facing mounting backlash over their outspoken political views.
The duo, known for their raw lyrics and activism, recently sparked controversy at the Glastonbury Festival after chanting against the 'Israeli' military on stage. The move led to a huge wave of support as well as consequences, including reported visa bans to the United States, festival cancellations, and public criticism.
In a tweet celebrating their chart success, Bob Vylan wrote: "Ban Bob Vylan? The people said ‘Nah’. We need artists that speak up... You can’t get dropped if you own the label. Thank you all!"
Ban Bob Vylan? The people said ‘Nah’. We need artists that speak up. Our album ‘Humble As The Sun’ is back in the charts and, as an independent band releasing music on our own label, it shows the power of the people. You can’t get dropped if you own the label.
— Bob Vylan (@BobbyVylan) July 6, 2025
Thank you all! pic.twitter.com/2QsjP00e1i
The group releases music independently through their own label, a fact they highlighted as a sign of creative freedom and resilience.
Their return to the top of the charts signals continued support from a dedicated fan base, even as the music industry and media wrestle with the political dimensions of artistic expression.