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Amy Nip

Two Hong Kong bands will not pull out of a July 1 concert some political activists say was scheduled and priced - at HK$99 a ticket - to draw young people away the annual pro-democracy march on the same day.
But the two bands, RubberBand and Mr, said they would donate the money they received to charity.
They are the sole Hong Kong acts appearing at the Hong Kong Dome Festival, a four-hour outdoor concert at Kai Tak.
A Facebook campaign was launched asking fans and stars to boycott the show, and it has drawn more than 5,000 "likes".
RubberBand posted a message on Facebook and Sina's Weibo yesterday announcing their decision to play the concert and join the July 1 march afterwards.
"We offer our sincere apology to fans who are disappointed in us. After a few days of consideration, we have come to the conclusion that we can voice our opinion on any stage, wherever it is," it stated.
The band had learned a lesson on politics and would donate its show profits to "grass-roots" causes, it said.
"After the event, we will [join] the march. We call upon all those who care about Hong Kong's freedom and political development to take to the streets and express their views on that day."
The band Mr followed suit, announcing on social platforms that it would donate its show earnings to charities.
But Mr sought to make clear that they had not caved in to the criticism.
"To those of you who have attacked and discredited the performers [at Dome Festival], we do not make this decision out of fear of you. I want you to know your comments bring no positive impact on society, the economy or yourself."
Fans voiced support for the two bands, saying they understood withdrawing from the show would mean a breach of contract. Others called on them to chant protest slogans on stage.
Korean stars and pop groups including BoA, Shinee, f(x), EXO and Henry from Super Junior M are also scheduled to perform at the show.


Hong Kong bands RubberBand and Mr to play at July 1 gig, despite boycott call

Hong Kong pop band 'RubberBand'. Photo: SCMP

News

Hong Kong

Two Hong Kong bands will not pull out of a July 1 concert some political activists say was scheduled and priced - at HK$99 a ticket - to draw young people away the annual pro-democracy march on the same day.
