Hip-hop group PUBLIC ENEMY almost cancelled their U.K. gigs this month (Sep11) over the riots that blighted the country in August (11).

Frontman Chuck D admits Americans were cautious about flying to Britain after days of unrest, during which youths looted shops and arsonists caused havoc in various cities across the country.

But the rap legends pressed ahead with their tour plans, insisting they’re not surprised by the behaviour.

During their gig at London’s HMV Forum, Chuck D told fans, "We almost didn’t make this gig because of what happened here a month ago. People in America were going nuts and they were scared about coming over here.

They were going: ’What the f**k is going on in England? A white man is acting like black man.’ "This is a new world order, if you push people they’re going to f**k s**t up. But there is enough to go round for everyone. Tell your government that. Equal rights are important." Meanwhile, rapper Flavor Flav showed sympathy for the incarcerated looters by dedicating track 911 Is A Joke to them, saying, "This to all the people that got locked up over that s**t."

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