Future Sound Asia (FSA), the organizers of Malaysia’s Good Vibes Festival (GVF), is threatening The 1975 with legal action following the band’s controversial performance, which resulted in the cancellation of the rest of the three-day festival.
As per Billboard, Future Sound Asia issued a letter of claim and is demanding for financial compensation from the UK band, or risk further court proceedings if they do not cooperate. “FSA would like to reiterate their strong disapproval of the Band’s behavior during their performance at GVF2023. In particular, lead singer Matthew Timothy Healy’s use of abusive language, equipment damage, and indecent stage behavior not only flagrantly breached local guidelines and Malaysian laws but also tarnished the reputation of the 10-year-old festival.” The statement continued, “The Band’s actions intentionally contravened the agreement they had with FSA for their performance at GVF2023. This breach led to the festival’s cancellation, resulting in significant financial losses for FSA and negatively impacting local artists and businesses that depended on the festival’s success — affecting the livelihoods of many Malaysians.”
“FSA deeply values the trust that fans and regulatory authorities have placed in them over the years. The organization remains unwavering in its commitment to fostering vibrant live music experiences in Malaysia, ensuring full compliance with local laws and regulations,” the organizers added.
The 1975 was rostered to perform on the first night of the three-day festival, which was also set to feature artists like The Strokes who were due to play their first ever show in the country. Frontman Matty Healy publicly voiced his criticism of Malasyia’s LGBTQ laws, calling them “f*cking ridiculous” and sharing an elongated kiss with bassist Ross MacDonald. Their set was cut just shortly after and the remainder of festival was cancelled by the country’s Ministry of Communications and Digital.
Elsewhere in music, Travis Scott’s UTOPIA debuts at No. 1 on this week’s Billboard 200.
