The music industry is observing Blackout Tuesday today (June 2, 2020). Major labels, streaming services, publishing and public relations companies and artists across the world have shared the message of solidarity. The news comes in response to the death of Minneapolis, Minnesota resident George Floyd, a 46-year-old African American man who was killed by police on May 25.
A number of the statements shared on social media platforms read: “Due to recent events please join us as we take an urgent step of action to provoke accountability and change. As gatekeepers of the culture, it’s our responsibility to not only come together to celebrate the wins, but also hold each other up during a loss. Join us Tuesday, June 2 as a day to disconnect from work and reconnect with our community. #TheShowMustBePaused.”
Labels including Roc Nation, Def Jam Recordings, Interscope, Sony Music, Columbia Records, Atlantic Records, Shady Records and more are also expected to participate. Spotify also announced that it would be “blacking out” — and specially curating — specific playlists, podcasts and channels while encouraging employees to take part in the day. The streaming giant posted on its blog that it “Stands with the Black Community in the Fight Against Racism and Injustice”.
Read below for a number of statements from record labels, streaming services and more on the plan to pause operations in a response to George Floyd’s death and to raise awareness of systemic racism in America.