Rapper set for two shows in St Petersburg following backlash over controversial remarks
US rapper Kanye West, also known as Ye, is set to perform two concerts in Russia after a series of shows in Europe were cancelled amid backlash over his controversial remarks about Israel and Adolf Hitler.
West will perform at St Petersburg’s Gazprom Arena on October 10 and 11, according to his producer Joseph Karre and Russian concert organiser SAY Agency.
Ye Live Concert Tour
The performances will form part of the Ye Live Concert Tour 2026, supporting his 12th album, Bully.
West will be among the few major Western artists to perform in Russia since February 2022, when many Western countries cut cultural ties with Moscow following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.
Pressure over Russia visit
Ukrainian officials and activists have urged international artists not to perform in Russia and have campaigned against Russian performers appearing abroad.
Moscow has criticised such efforts, describing them as attempts to “cancel Russian culture”.
West previously visited Moscow in June 2024 to attend the birthday celebration of designer Gosha Rubchinsky, who had collaborated with the rapper on his Yeezy fashion brand.
Controversial statements
West has faced widespread criticism over remarks described as antisemitic and supportive of Nazi ideology.
He has also faced backlash over his public statements and music, leading to restrictions and cancellations in several countries.
West later apologised for some of his actions, attributing them to poor judgement and reckless behaviour.
European shows cancelled
Last year, West was barred from entering Australia over a song referencing Hitler. In April, he was also banned from entering the UK ahead of a planned Wireless Festival appearance, which was later cancelled.
His planned concert in Marseille, France, was postponed in June after authorities reportedly sought to prevent him from entering the country.
A concert scheduled in Reggio Emilia, Italy, was also cancelled, while a planned show in Chorzow, Poland, was called off by the venue.
