Aussie Venues Cancel US Rapper Riff Raff Gigs Following Sexual Assault Allegations

Content warning: This news article contains discussion of sexual assault and rape. If you or someone you know is impacted by sexual assault, domestic or family violence, call 1800RESPECT on 1800 737 732 or visit 1800RESPECT.org.au.

Multiple Australian live music venues have cancelled upcoming Riff Raff concerts following sexual assault allegations made against the US rapper. 

Allegations against Riff Raff surfaced online this week, in which the Houston-born artist has been accused of drugging and raping a woman backstage at a show in 2013. 

Though Riff Raff was scheduled to kick off his Australian tour in Cairns, the venue today announced the gig has been cancelled "due to circumstances beyond our control".

Meanwhile, venues such as Melbourne's The Corner, Cambridge Hotel in Newcastle, and Adelaide's HQ have all axed the gigs, posting similar statements on Facebook

"We have recently been made aware of allegations of drugging and sexual assault against Riff Raff on a previous Melbourne tour," The Corner's statement reads. 

"The Corner & High Fi Events take allegations of sexual assault very seriously, and we have therefore cancelled Riff Raff’s upcoming show at the Corner Hotel. We are working tirelessly to ensure the venue is a safe and inclusive space for everybody and we don’t condone sexual harassment and assault of any kind."

Read the full post below. 

The Music has contacted the rapper's Australian promoter and management for comment.

UPDATE: 

Australian tour promoters Audiopaxx have announced Riff Raff's tour is now cancelled in light of the allegations made against the US rapper. 

See the full post below.