News Story #1

The former singer of the popular British alternative group The Smiths and activist Morrissey cancelled shows in two states following a “credible threat on his life”. Though Morrissey is no stranger to show cancelations, both road crew and fans agree that this is in fact for the best since threats like these need to be taken seriously, especially in times like these. Threats of violence to musicians have been a constant factor for many years with some going as far as to act out their plans. Some of the more notable figures in music who were fatally killed by “fans” of the artist/group are John Lennon, rhythm guitarist and singer for The Beatles, was gunned down in New York on December 8^th, 1980, by Mark David Chapman. Another being Dimebag Darrell, lead guitarist of the metal group Pantera, who was gunned down during a live performance in Ohio on December 8^th, 2004. With the rise of social media and the opportunity for fans from around the world to create bonds and connections with different artists, one must ask if this is a good idea for both the safety of the artist as well as the safety of the fans. I spoke with Jack Walker, a singer of a rising Wisconsin band Nothing of Consequence, and asked about his take on threats against musicians and the rise online threats and he stated “As a musician in my band I am not too worried since we are still at a lower level than most major acts, but I do think about that in the back of my mind whenever I perform, granted it most likely will never happen to me at this stage of my career, I still concern about it if per say we do get far in this band”. I spoke with Casey Brown, a frequent concert attendee who has seen many artists live over the years and she said “When I go to concerts, I meet with likeminded people who enjoy the same music as I do, I can’t fathom people making threats to musicians for just doing what they love, but it unfortunately happens far too often. Though threats online are disgusting and the rise of technology helps create a more accessible outlet for these people to spread the word, it is much more difficult to get away with saying these things. Police arrested a 26-year-old man from Canada with the crime. This investigation is still ongoing.