The killings of black people and most recently George Floyd have made a deep impact across the world. Several people in the United States have joined together in support of the black community. Now, the music industry is planning to put a day off from music and observe a day of self reflection in light of the recent events.
Record labels such as MTV and BET went dark for 8 minutes and 46 seconds to support the black lives matter movement and take a stand against racism. Top record labels are holding a black out Tuesday campaign to voice their support. Even the Recording Academy took to social media to state that they support and stand with the black community who have been at the receiving end of gross injustice.
Sony’s Columbia Records issued a statement regarding the ‘Black Out Tuesday’ movement. In their statement they said “On Tuesday 2 June, Columbia Records will observe ‘Black Out Tuesday.’
‘This is not a day off. Instead, this is a day to reflect and figure out ways to move forward in solidarity. We continue to stand with the Black community, our staff, artists, and peers in the music industry. Perhaps with the music off, we can truly listen.’
Joining Columbia Records are other Sony owned labels like RCA Records and Epic Records, further Universal Music Group Divisions and the Warner Music Group’s Atlantic and Warner Records are observing ‘Black Out Tuesday’. Smaller and independent labels are also joining the fray, along with management companies.
UMG’s Interscope Geffen A&M Records not only joined the ‘Black Out Tuesday’ movement but also pledged not to release any music this week. They postponed the release of MGK, 6lack, Dylan, Lil Mosey among others. Musicians too have joined the protests and are voicing support through social media.
Joining the protesters were musicians such as Ariana Grande, J. Cole, Jamie Foxx, Chance the Rapper, Kehlani, Miguel, Tinashe, Lil Yachty and Halsey. Halsey also claimed to have been hit by a shrapnel and a pellet while protesting in Los Angeles.
Those musicians who didn’t join the protests, expressed their frustrations via social media. LL Cool J posted a passionate rap on social media, while Beyonce posted a video on Instagram to show support.
R&B duo Chloe x Halle cancelled the release of their album in light of the incidents. They shared a cover of protest song ‘We Shall Overcome’ on Instagram, providing hope to people in these desperate times. In an interview to the Associated Press, Halle said
“This week has been very heavy for all of us. We’ve been trying to, not understand, because there’s no way to understand the terrible killings — we just have heavy hearts this week and are just trying to do everything we can to pray and lift each other up with our voices.”
This incident definitely calls for a change and the music industry uniting is a big sign of hope for the black community in this hour.