Jazz musician cancelled for supporting 50 remaining hostages in Gaza at festival: 'I'm not a politician'

David Hermlin's festival cancellations raise free speech questions in entertainment after the swing musician questioned pro-Palestinian activists at Sweden's Herräng Dance Camp.

Jasmine Baehr is a Breaking News Writer for Fox News Digital, where she covers politics, the military, faith and culture.

The look fits the sound. He sings classics like "Let’s Fall in Love" backed by his own big band, The Swing Dance Orchestra, that recreates the golden era of swing down to the last detail. His yellow ribbon pin, worn neatly on the lapel of that tailored suit, stood out at this year’s festival and became a flashpoint in the controversy.

Hermlin’s experience raises questions about free speech in the entertainment world. He frames his case as part of a broader historical pattern of exclusion."What kind of a world is this now that before I can play at a festival, I have to make a political statement? It’s a music festival, not a political festival," he said.