Several prominent record labels including Def Jam, Interscope, Warner Music Group, Sony/ATV and Columbia Records have called an industry wide black out for tomorrow, June 2, in response to the death of George Floyd. Each label has shared a statement in solidarity with racial justice and communities of color who have been affected by institutional racism and police brutality. Some such as Polyvinyl, have also expressed solidarity with Black Lives Matter and will be donating to racial justice causes.
This call also has extended to other parts of the industry, such as artists and streaming platforms such as Spotify, who will be curating special playlists, podcasts and channels for tomorrow. The platform will also be giving its workers the day off in observance of this event.
Floyd was an African American man who died after being detained by fired Minneapolis Police Officer Derek Chauvin,. Chauvin was caught on video pressing his knee against Floyd’s neck for nearly nine minutes, as Floyd repeatedly screamed that he couldn’t breathe. One of Floyd’s final moments saw him calling for his mother in the final moments before his death.
Several prominent musicians also took to Twitter to discuss the black out and express solidarity with protesters. Indie rock outfit DIIV has a particularly lengthy thread, calling out economic injustice and police brutality, while sharing a highly debated Martin Luther King Jr. quote, which states “a riot is the language of the unheard.”
Indie singer-songwriter Amanda Palmer stated Black lives Matter and indicated that she will also be taking part in the protest. Producer and DJ BT discussed the influential role African Americans have in shaping electronic dance music, and also discussed joining in on the blackout.
Progressive metal artist Devin Townsend also joined in and rescheduled his live stream for the day after the anticipated blackout. DJ and producer Skrillex also chimed in and stated that he would be helping clean up the streets and assisting organizers.
Kacey Musgraves posted a message showing links and organizations people can donate to in order to help out during this time. Chuck D of Public Enemy took another approach, criticizing the lack of media cover for Black Lives Matter when there wasn’t any alleged “drama” to cover.
Heavy metal drummer Dave Lombardo called for a demand peace, and shared a video of a young girl in Charlotte, North Carolina giving a speech on the issue. Indie rock outfit LA Witch shared an image with the Black Panther logo while expressing solidarity.
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