Azealia Banks was scheduled to perform at the Howler venue in Melbourne, Australia on October 13, 2022 as part of her Australian tour, but the show was abruptly cancelled just hours before it was set to begin. This led to confusion and frustration among fans who had been looking forward to seeing the controversial American rapper live. In this article, we’ll look at the key questions around why Banks cancelled her Melbourne show and what it means for the rest of her tour.
What was the official reason given for the cancellation?
According to the official statement from Banks’ management, the show was cancelled due to “unforeseen circumstances”. No further details were provided initially. The vague wording left fans guessing as to what the specific reasons were behind the last minute cancellation.
When was the cancellation announced?
The news came suddenly on the day of the scheduled show. Howler posted on social media at approximately 6:30pm local time that the show would no longer be going ahead. This gave very little notice to fans, some of whom were already on their way to the venue or planning to attend that evening.
How was the news communicated to fans?
Both Howler and Banks’ management posted brief statements announcing the cancellation on their social media channels such as Facebook and Twitter. Patrons who had purchased tickets directly from Howler received emails notifying them of the cancellation. However, there was considerable confusion as the posts lacked detail. Angry fans demanded more concrete reasons from Banks’ team.
What reasons are fans speculating caused the cancellation?
In the absence of an official explanation, fans have been speculating as to the real reasons behind Banks pulling the plug on her Melbourne show. Here are some of the theories circulating online:
- Low ticket sales – Some fans believe lacklustre ticket sales led to the show being unprofitable.
- Security concerns – Banks has a reputation for controversial behaviour, leading to speculation there were security issues.
- Missed flight – There is talk Banks may have simply missed her connecting flight to Melbourne.
- Disagreement with the promoter – Personality clashes and financial disputes are also being suggested.
How have fans reacted to the cancellation?
There has been a huge outpouring of rage and disappointment from fans online. Paid tickets cost between $70 – $130 and some fans had even flown interstate, making it an expensive experience. Fans have called the last minute cancellation “insulting” and “disrespectful”. Howler’s social media has been flooded with complaints demanding refunds.
Will the Melbourne show be rescheduled?
At this stage there has been no indication the Melbourne show will be rescheduled. Howler stated they are “working with the artist’s management” regarding refunds for ticketholders. It appears unlikely the show will go ahead at a later date. Disappointed fans have noted that Banks also cancelled an Auckland show earlier in the tour.
What about other Australia tour dates?
The cancellation has cast doubt over Azealia Banks’ remaining Australian shows. She is scheduled to perform in Brisbane on October 14th, Sydney on October 15th and Fremantle on October 20th. No notification has been given yet as to whether these shows will still go ahead. Fans are anxiously awaiting updates.
Has Azealia Banks cancelled shows before?
This is not the first time controversy has led to the rapper cancelling shows. A few examples:
- 2012 – Cancelled her Out In Australia tour after using a gay slur on Twitter.
- 2014 – Cancelled Coachella performance after fight with security guard.
- 2015 – Cancelled headlining Glastonbury set without explanation.
- 2016 – Pulled out of Born And Bred festival after losing voice.
So while cancellations seem to follow Banks, an Australian tour cancellation so last minute is still seen as extreme and puzzling by fans.
Will refunds be offered for the cancelled show?
Howler stated that “patrons are entitled to a full refund” and to allow time for processing, refunds would be issued to the original purchaser automatically within 10 working days. They recommended ticket holders should contact their original point of purchase if refunds were not forthcoming.
The venue itself has promised refunds, however the situation may differ for tickets purchased through third party reseller sites. Fans have been urged to contact their point of purchase as policies vary.
Conclusion
Azealia Banks’ cancelled show in Melbourne left fans high and dry without satisfactory explanation. The lack of transparency around the last minute cancellation has fueled speculation and outrage online. With no word yet on whether upcoming shows will still go ahead, the Australian tour is shrouded in uncertainty. While refunds are being processed, disappointed fans have been left venting their frustration at what they see as blatant disrespect from the controversial star. For many, it’s likely the end of their support for Azealia Banks live shows.