Lorde Removed from Apple Music in Israel Following Controversial ‘Free Palestine’ Statement at NYC Concert
Lorde’s Music Removed from Apple Music in Israel After Pro-Palestinian Statement
Lorde Sparks Controversy with Concert Remarks
Lorde, the New Zealand-born pop sensation, has found herself at the center of a digital dispute after her recent concert at New York City’s Madison Square Garden. During the performance, she expressed support for Palestine, exclaiming, “Free f–king Palestine,” while performing her hit song “Team.” The stage was illuminated in colors representing the Palestinian Liberation Organization’s flag, further underscoring her statement.
Music Streaming Disruption in Israel
Following her remarks, Lorde’s discography disappeared from Apple Music’s Israeli platform. This removal, as reported by Ynet, occurred as early as Thursday, leaving Israeli fans unable to access her music. Despite this, her songs remain available to listeners in other regions, including the United States.
Apple’s Silence Amid Questions
The cause behind Lorde’s music removal in Israel remains unconfirmed. Emegypt reached out to Apple for clarification on whether this action was linked to her comments or aligned with the company’s broader policies. As of now, there’s no confirmed response from Apple regarding the involvement of its US-based headquarters. Historically, Apple has refrained from taking sides in the Israel-Palestine conflict.
Background on Lorde’s Activism
Lorde’s stance is not without precedent. She has previously cancelled a scheduled performance in Tel Aviv in 2017, responding to activist pressure supporting the Boycott, Divestment, and Sanctions (BDS) movement. BDS encourages artists to boycott Israel culturally, while detractors have labeled it an antisemitic campaign. Lorde is also reportedly supporting the “No Music for Genocide” boycott, alongside other artists pledging to geo-block their music from Israel.
The Tech World’s Protests and Tensions
Apple is not alone in its connection to Israeli affairs. The tech giant maintains a significant stake in Israel’s robust tech ecosystem. Other Silicon Valley companies have faced activism related to their Israeli partnerships. Notably, Microsoft employees and activists orchestrated a kayak protest near executives’ residences, and Google staff have organized protests denouncing Project Nimbus, an Israeli military tech initiative.
As tensions continue, it remains to be seen how the intersection of music, technology, and international politics will unfold, with Lorde’s outspoken positions marking a notable instance of celebrity involvement in geopolitical issues.
