Promoters kicked the American-Jewish star off the bill after he refused respond to requests to appear in a video endorsing Palestine.

Jewish groups urged Spanish officials to intervene and on Wednesday (19Aug15), Matisyahu was invited back.

On Friday (21Aug15), he took the high road on the drama and agreed to perform, releasing a statement, which reads: "Today, music wins... I have always believed in the power of music to unite all people, regardless of religion, politics or geography. This was an excruciating decision, as I felt that my core, essential being was being used as a pawn for political convenience.

"It is my deep conviction however that acceptance and the ability for rebirth allow us to move forward... The incredible outpouring of worldwide support from fans and organizations who rose up as one to protest the intrusion of politics into a borderless celebration of music has been humbling.

"My deepest thanks to the worldwide community for rallying to the cause of musical freedom. Most of all, thank you to my incredible fans and to so many people of all faiths who refused to remain silent in the name of artistic freedom. This is your victory."

Asking the Jewish star to return to the festival bill, promoters confessed they had "made a mistake due to the boycott and the campaign of pressure, coercion and threats employed by the (pro-Palestine group) BDS Pais Valencia because it was perceived that the normal functioning of the festival could be threatened."