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Daily Mirror
Daily Mirror
Entertainment
James Brinsford

Nick Cave and Franz Ferdinand join music stars cancelling Russia gigs in their droves

Nick Cave and the Bad Seeds are the latest music act to cancel performances in Russia over its "brutal act" with its invasion of Ukraine.

The 64-year-old performer was scheduled to play shows at Moscow’s Bol Festival and Kyiv’s Palace of Sports with his band in summer.

A statement posted on the band’s social media accounts today announced that the concerts had been cancelled “in light of current events”.

It continued: “Our thoughts and love go out to the brave people of Ukraine, their heroic leader, and all those suffering from this senseless war.

“Ukraine, we stand with you, and with all those in Russia who oppose this brutal act, and we pray that this madness is brought to a close soon.”

Nick Cave and the Bad Seeds issued this statement about the cancellations (@nickcave/Twitter)

Cave, known for hits such as Into My Arms and One More Time With Feeling, joins artists including former One Direction star Louis Tomlinson and American rock band Green Day in scrapping gigs in Russia over the conflict, as well as popular Indie stalwarts, Franz Ferdinand.

The Scottish rockers tweeted: "We are cancelling our Russian shows that are scheduled for this summer. The only reason for this is the invasion of Ukraine by the Russian state.”

They made clear: “We love Russia. This great country has inspired our band through its art and literature, and since we first played there seventeen years ago, we have built a rich and deep relationship with our Russian fans.

“Since Thursday morning, we have spoken to many of our friends in Russia via social media and have encountered unanimous opposition to this violence and solidarity with our Ukrainian friends.

“We know you see the madness of your country’s leadership. We know you do not want war.

“We do not want war. Despite the tragedy of this situation, we still burn a flame of optimism in our hearts and look forward to the day when we can return in a time of peace to share the joy of music together again.”

Franz Ferdinand have scrapped their shows in Russia (Gamma-Rapho via Getty Images)

Announcing his cancellation on Monday, Louis Tomlinson said in a statement : "Due to the recent events in Ukraine, I have to sadly announce that my tour shows in Moscow and Kyiv are cancelled until further notice."

The chart-topper continued: "The safety of my fans is my priority and my thoughts go out to the people of Ukraine and al those suffering from this needless war."

He then signed off with his name.

Nick Cave has condemned Russia's invasion of Ukraine (Redferns)

Louis was due to perform at the Stereo Plaza venue in the Ukrainian capital on Monday, July 4.

Bring Me The Horizon were another to announce they would be scrapping shows in Russia.

Russia has been hit with a host of cancellations with the Russian Grand Prix, which was scheduled for September, being pulled from the F1 calendar.

The International Olympic Committee has urged sporting federations with other events planned for Russia or its ally Belarus to do likewise.

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