US Rapper Banned From UK Over 'Violent Lyrics'

An American rapper has been forced to cancel his UK tour, after the Home Office banned him from entering the country over controversial lyrics.

Tyler the Creator expressed frustration at the Government's decision on Twitter, and claimed the decision was based on songs which were written in 2009.

In a letter, senior politicians pointed to lyrics which "encourage violence and intolerance of homosexuality".

Others "foster hatred with views that seek to provoke others to terrorist acts".

His manager, Christian Clancy, pointed out that Tyler had been to the UK "over 20 times in the past five years without incident".

One such occasion included a private screening of a cult movie for loyal fans.

Although Mr Clancy admitted the lyrics in question "make him cringe", he questioned why Tyler was being beholden to things he had said when he was 18.

He added: "This is a broader issue of free speech, with new lines being drawn that include reaching back in time without acknowledging growth.

"Since the letter acknowledged he was writing from an alter ego perspective, does this then apply to book writers?"

A Home Office spokesperson said: ""Coming to the UK is a privilege, and we expect those who come here to respect our shared values.

"The Home Secretary has the power to exclude an individual if she considers that his or her presence in the UK is not conducive to the public good or if their exclusion is justified on public policy grounds."

Mr Clancy has questioned whether Tyler's race could be a "conscious or a subconscious factor" in the UK Government's decision.

He stressed he simply wanted to raise awareness that Tyler's lyrics were different in nature these days.

"He writes songs about cars and spreading your wings," Mr Clancy explained.

"He doesn't drink or smoke, he owns his own businesses, he takes care of his family and friends, he's honest, grateful, aware, fearless, intelligent, and inspiring.

"His shows serve as a release, not acts of aggression."

In 2014, he was arrested in the US for allegedly inciting a riot during a performance.