M.I.A. Removed From Kid Cudi Tour After Controversial Remarks
The rapper and singer M.I.A. was removed from Kid Cudi's Rebel Ragers Tour on May 6, 2025, following comments she made during a performance in Dallas on May 2.
During the show, she stated that she had been "canceled" for supporting Republicans and made a remark about her song "Illygirl," saying it could not be performed because "some of you could be in the audience." She then clarified, "I am illegal. Half of my team are not here because they didn't get the visa." The audience responded with booing.
Background
M.I.A., born Mathangi Arulpragasam, is a British-Sri Lankan artist known for her politically charged music, including songs like "Paper Planes," "Borders," and "Illygirl." She has been a vocal advocate for refugee rights and the Tamil cause. In recent years, she has expressed support for various conspiracy theories and has endorsed political figures including Donald Trump and Robert F. Kennedy Jr.
Statements
Following the incident, M.I.A. posted on social media:
"I wrote 'Borders' and 'Illygal' and 'Paper Planes' before you thought immigrant rights were cool. I've had these battles by myself without the help of millions of fans backing me. I don't need a virtue signal era to erase an entire life I've led."
She also referenced a Bible verse, Matthew 5:11, writing "CRUCIFIED FOR WORDS" and adding, "Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of me."
Context
M.I.A. has faced controversies over statements regarding Black Lives Matter, vaccine skepticism, and 5G conspiracy theories. She has appeared on shows hosted by Candace Owens and InfoWars. The tour removal has drawn attention to her evolving public persona and political stances.