Albanian Prime Minister Edi Rama has announced a Kanye West concert in Tirana on July 11. The event will proceed despite cancellations of the rapper's shows across Europe due to backlash over his antisemitic comments. Albania's Ministry of Culture emphasized the economic benefits for tourism.
Albanian Prime Minister Edi Rama posted on Facebook on April 30 to confirm that Ye, formerly known as Kanye West, will perform in the capital Tirana on July 11. This comes amid widespread cancellations of his European tour dates this summer, including the UK, France, Switzerland, and Poland. The rapper released his album ‘Bully’ in March and had planned a world tour, but faced significant opposition after his booking for London's Wireless Festival. UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer criticized the decision, leading sponsors to withdraw and the UK Home Office to bar Ye from entry. Wireless ultimately cancelled its entire 2026 event. Shows in the other countries followed suit. Albania's Ministry of Culture stated: “In every aspect, it is our obligation to welcome and facilitate the development of such events that bring numerous benefits to tourism and the economy.” Unconfirmed reports suggest plans for a temporary venue in Tirana. Ye recently issued a fresh apology for his past remarks and addressed criticism in an update to his Wall Street Journal “to those I’ve hurt” letter from January.
