M.I.A. is bringing her high-energy show to Clockenflap

British-Sri Lankan rapper M.I.A. is sure to give Clockenflap a performance to remember. Her shows are known for being high energy – think ass-shaking jungle disco madness – and if there’s something on her mind, we can be sure we’re going to hear about it.

The provocative and intensely political singer was announced after South African rap group Die Antwoord pulled out of the festival citing “unforeseen circumstances”. If the festival organisers were looking for an artist to really rock the new Central Harbourfront location – a house-warming of sorts after five years at the West Kowloon spot – then it looks like they’ve found it with M.I.A.

Earlier this year, she acknowledged to London’s Evening Standard that she has a reputation for being difficult. “I still don’t get invited to the Brits. I think they’re scared of me. And I hardly ever get approached by corporations or brands. I have this massive ‘No’ sign on my face,” says the 41-year-old.

The singer, whose real name is Mathangi “Maya” Arulpragasam, has now spent a decade in the limelight. Her debut album Arular – released in 2005 – was immediately well received, praised for mixing styles and blending political lyrics into dance tunes. That first album was named after her father and the second one – Kala, released in 2007 – was named after her mother. In September she released her fifth album, AIM, which she claims will be her final studio album.

M.I.A. to headline Clockenflap’s Saturday as Hong Kong festival announces final additions to line-up

If you’re new to M.I.A., you’re probably getting the picture already – family, personal experiences and politics have played a huge part in shaping her music.