What happened between Talib Kweli and security at the Black Star concert?

Talib Kweli got into a heated argument with security guards backstage at the Black Star concert in Manchester, UK after venue staff interrupted the group's performance due to an 11PM curfew.

What did Talib Kweli say about the incident with the Black Star concert at the O2 Manchester venue?

In a statement, Kweli explained that the venue had pushed back the show start time without Black Star's input, causing them to end the performance later than planned. He maintained that Black Star had not disrespected the curfew, and accused the venue of mistreating them as guests.

Home / Arts and Entertainment / Talib Kweli Erupts in Backstage Showdown with Security at Black Star Concert

Talib Kweli Erupts in Backstage Showdown with Security at Black Star Concert

Q: How did Talib Kweli respond to the venue staff interrupting the Black Star show?

Kweli was furious, accusing the venue of being disrespectful and suggesting they would not have treated a white UK artist the same way. He got into confrontations with multiple security guards, cursing them out.

18 Nov

•

Summary

Talib Kweli furiously confronted security guards backstage
Venue staff interrupted Black Star's performance due to 11PM curfew
Kweli accused venue of disrespecting Black Star and racial bias

Talib Kweli Erupts in Backstage Showdown with Security at Black Star Concert

On November 11, 2025, veteran rapper Talib Kweli was involved in a heated confrontation with security guards backstage at his Black Star concert in Manchester, UK. According to reports, the incident occurred after venue staff interrupted the group's performance just one minute past the 11PM curfew.

Kweli was furious, loudly demanding to know "Who the f*** they think they are!" He accused the venue of being disrespectful, claiming they would not have treated a white UK artist the same way. Kweli also got into a heated argument with a Black security guard, suggesting their team would not have pulled such a stunt on a white performer.

The confrontation escalated, with Kweli cursing out a stagehand until the person retreated. He then turned his attention to another security guard, yelling "STFU" and forcing the individual to back down. Meanwhile, the onlooking fans seemed to egg Kweli on, chanting the chorus to Black Star's hit song "Definition."