MUMBAI: The lives of over hundred attendees at the Eagles of Death Metal (EODM) concert at Bataclan changed for the worse when terrorists opened fire during the show, killing 89 people. Almost a week since the horrific unfolding of the worst terrorist massacre on French soil, the music community gradually displayed their support through social media or other forms of expressions.
The day after the attacks, the band posted on their Facebook page, “We are still currently trying to determine the safety and whereabouts of all our band and crew. Our thoughts are with all of the people involved in this tragic situation.” While the band managed to escape unhurt, a few of their friends and fans had no such luck. On 18 November, the band, once again took to Facebook to confirm the safety of its members and crew.
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While the band is now home safe, we are horrified and still trying to come to terms with what happened in France. Our…
Posted by Eagles Of Death Metal on Wednesday, 18 November 2015
Justin Bieber, Keith Richards, Metallica and Eagles of Death Metal offered their condolences and support to victims of attack that involved music industry persons like Thomas Ayad, Marie Mosse, Manu Perez and EODM’s merch seller- Nick Alexander. A memorial fund has been set up in honour of Alexander on GoFundMe with over $90,000 raised by 1,927 people so far. The funding amount will go to his family, who will then decide how it will be spent. Earlier, a charity T-shirt campaign was organised in memory of Alexander and other victims of the Paris attack.
American indie rock band The National conveyed their disbelief through Twitter saying, “We are deeply shocked and saddened by the violence in Paris. Our thoughts and prayers are with the French people.”
London-based post-punk band Savages tweeted the day after the attack- “our thoughts and hearts are with those held hostage at the #eodm gig and all those in Paris #ParisAttacks”
Taylor Swift, on her twitter handle said, “Praying for Paris. Our hearts are breaking for and with you.”
Jared Followill, guitarist of American band Kings of Leon, posted a photo of their set-list from their performance at Bataclan in 2007.
We played Le Bataclan in 2007. I remember the venue well. This will hit too close to home for all touring musicians. pic.twitter.com/S0Lq9SF09C
— Jared Followill (@youngfollowill) November 14, 2015
The support and messages of love and compassion did not only come from music celebrities and artists, but also involved a cry for support- “Vive la France! [Long Live France]” came from frontman of the New Order, Bernanrd Sumner, as the band took the stage.
Venues across US, UK and other provinces of Europe upped their security soon after the attacks, while several high-profile bands cancelled their tours across the continent. Among the ones affected with the cancellation of gigs were fans of Elton John, Deftones, U2, Motorhead and Foo Fighters, but fans would surely not complain, considering the circumstances. Brandon Flowers of The Killers, understands the reason behind musicians’ reluctance to play in Paris any time soon, but appealed them to “try and not be afraid.”
In fact, a lot of fans and the general public took to the streets and resorted to playing some classics on the streets of Paris, London, Berlin and New York. Bataclan owners were at loss of words when they released the official statement paying respects to the victims of the heinous terror act. “We will keep you informed as soon as it’s possible for you to come and mourn in front of the concert hall. Thank you for your support, which deeply affects us” read the statement posted in French.
It is only evident and encouraging that more such gestures would follow and the community of music continues to show its support. Hundreds of Irish musicians are to take part in a Concert for Paris- an all-French programme involving Ravel’s Pavane pour une Infante Défunte, and Fauré’s Pavane and Requiem. Another musical tribute came through famed tenor and conductor Placido Domingo, the Metropolitan Opera in New York city during the Saturday’s matinee with some fans rising to their feet to sing the French national anthem ‘Le Marseillaise’ with the ensemble.
