Neko Case Walks Off Stage Over Armed Guard at Tennessee Concert

Pelham, Tennessee – Neko Case, a member of the indie rock band The New Pornographers, abruptly walked off stage during a performance on October 9, 2025, due to the presence of an armed guard posted beside the stage. Fans reported that the venue management refused her request to remove the guard, which made her uncomfortable, given her past trauma.

According to concertgoers, the armed guard was described as an older white male, casually dressed in jeans and a cowboy hat, and carrying a large pistol on his hip. Case reportedly stopped the show after performing just three or four songs, explaining to her audience, “I have been raped at gunpoint,” as she conveyed her distress over the armed presence.

“There are men on every side of this room with a gun, and I am not comfortable playing this show,” Case stated, as attendees listened in shock. She expressed her concern, saying, “I can’t have men with guns watching me right now. I don’t know if you’ve ever been raped at gunpoint, but you just don’t want people hanging around with guns.”

Eyewitness accounts from fans suggested that Case appeared visibly shaken when she saw the guard. One fan noted that she seemed to be backing away and shaking her head before the show. Despite the initial excitement of the crowd, it quickly turned to concern for Case’s wellbeing.

Following the incident, ticket refunds were offered to attendees. Many concertgoers expressed their frustration online, some directing their anger toward Case for her decision to leave the stage. However, others acknowledged the justification for her actions given the circumstances surrounding the concert.

The Caverns, known for its unique cave setting, has attracted numerous performances but sparked debates about security protocols following this incident. As Case continues her tour, her supporters are rallying to stand by her choice for safety.