The punk duo Bob Vylan have been awarded substantial damages and a full apology from the publisher of the Manchester Evening News after the newspaper falsely alleged a band member performed a “Nazi salute” during a gig in Manchester.
The legal firm Rahman Lowe Solicitors announced on Friday, 7th November, that it had secured the settlement on behalf of the band’s frontman, Bobby Vylan (real name Pascal Robinson). The case stemmed from an article published by Reach plc on 6th October, titled “Jewish leaders and MPs ‘deeply concerned’ over Bob Vylan gig in Manchester,” which contained the defamatory claim.
According to a statement from the band’s solicitors, the allegation was a severe misrepresentation of a long-standing ritual in the band’s live performances. Bob Vylan begins each gig with a guided stretching and meditation routine, inviting the audience to participate. As part of this, Vylan and bandmate Bobbie perform a sun salutation—a common yoga stretch that involves reaching the left arm skyward and placing the right palm over the heart.
“The movement is performed while facing each of the four corners of the room, symbolically connecting with the entire audience,” the legal statement clarified. “It bears no resemblance in form, intention, or context to any fascist salute. This ritual has been an integral part of Bob Vylan’s live performances for several years.”
In a statement addressing the settlement, Bobby Vylan said that having an act rooted in “mindfulness, peace and connection” be distorted into “a symbol of hate was both painful and outrageous.”
“Our art has always stood against oppression in all its forms, racism, fascism, and discrimination and we will never stop using our platform to speak truth to power,” he added. “We are grateful to our legal team at Rahman Lowe for defending our integrity and setting the record straight. The truth matters, and we’re glad it’s now been recognised.”
As a result of the legal action, Reach plc has published a full correction and apology. The publisher has also agreed to pay Vylan’s legal costs and has undertaken not to repeat the allegation.
Zillur Rahman of Rahman Lowe Solicitors emphasised the seriousness of the false claim, stating: “This was an extremely serious and damaging allegation, falsely suggesting that an artist whose entire career is rooted in anti-racism and social justice was performing a Nazi salute.”
The case concludes a challenging period for the band, who have faced significant controversy and political pressure following their outspoken political commentary, particularly regarding the conflict in Gaza. The settlement with the Manchester Evening News stands as a formal vindication of the band’s character and the peaceful intent behind their artistic expression.
