Offset announces Russia show despite label boycott
Offset is performing in Russia next month against the values of Universal Music Group. The label cut ties with the country a few years ago due to its invasion of Ukraine, but that isn’t stopping the Atlanta rapper, formerly of Migos, from putting on a show there.
The ‘Ric Flair Drip‘ artist (real name Kiari Cephus) will appear on stage at MTC Live Hall in Moscow on April 18th. He announced the news to his 25 million followers on his Instagram Stories.
The ticket website describes Offset as “a showman who turns a concert into a theatrical performance,” as well as someone who’s “leaving the past behind and striving to become better – more confident, aware, and full of energy.”
Tickets for the show are priced between 5,000 and 45,000 Russian roubles, around £40 to £400. The news comes just days after Charlotte rapper DaBaby also performed in Moscow.
In March 2022, days after Vladimir Putin’s invasion, Universal Music Group announced the suspension of operations in Russia and the closing of Universal Music Russia. Offset is signed to Motown Records, owned by Universal, so the upcoming gig goes against his label’s boycott.
“The following statement was issued today in regards to the suspension of operations and the closing of Universal Music Group offices in Russia,” a spokesperson said. “Effective immediately, we are suspending all operations in Russia and closing our offices there.”
The statement continued, “We urge an end to the violence in Ukraine as soon as possible. We are adhering to international sanctions and, along with our employees and artists, have been working with groups from a range of countries to support humanitarian relief efforts to bring urgent aid to refugees in the region.”
Other major labels, such as Warner Music Group and Sony Music Entertainment, took a similar stand following the invasion of Ukraine.
Offset’s group, Migos, is best known for hits such as ‘Bad and Boujee’ with Lil Uzi Vert, ‘MotorSport’ with Nicki Minaj and Cardi B, and ‘Stir Fry’. He launched a solo career in 2017 and released his last album, Set It Off, in October 2023.