Musical controversy magnets Sticky Fingers have just been announced as headliners of Brisbane-based festival Holy Green and concerns have been raised by punters.
Gold Coast producer Paces, also announced on the lineup yesterday, has issued a statement in response to an outpouring of commentary from his fans about sharing a bill with the “problematic” headliners.
If you’re reading this then you’re probably aware of the widespread industry condemnation of StiFi, but if you need to brush up you can find out more info here.
Taking to Instagram, Paces — real name Mikey Perry — wrote a lengthy post to fans outlining his conundrum, explaining that he wants to distance himself from Sticky Fingers but can’t justify the loss of income he’d suffer by pulling out of the festival to protest their involvement.
“I’ve been booked to play a festival that has a problematic headliner and I feel I need to address this,” Paces writes.
“Someone asked me how it feels to be on a lineup with known abusers. My response was: Honestly, not good. I only just found out the lineup when it was announced and it’s a really tricky position to be in,” he continues.
The producer goes on to explain that he is “absolutely against abusers” and naturally wants to “distance myself from SF as much as possible”.
“On the other hand I have a young child to feed and shows are my only real source of income,” he explains. “Life as a musician is uncertain at best so it’s a big risk for me to cancel a booking, and something that will definitely impact my family. Also I really want to play for MY fans and don’t want the actions of others to stop me from connecting with my people.”
Paces then goes on to address his female fans and members of the LGBTQ+ community directly, saying: “I’m always super conscious to make my own headline shows safe spaces and I always tell people that if they’re feeling unsafe, I’ll sort it out and have the offender removed from the venue.
“I also always book at least 50% female-identifying supports and guest vocalists when it’s my own show, because I’m trying to be the change,” he continues.
“I want you to know that I care deeply about this and it’s a decision that weighs heavy on my mind. I hope you can understand the factors I’ve had to weigh up and how much I detest this position I’m in.
“One person suggested I try to mitigate SF’s damage somehow. I think that’s a great idea so I’m donating $1000 of my appearance fee to an anti-abuse charity. I’d love some suggestions as to which charity if anyone wants to make a suggestion?”
If you have a suggestion for Paces, you can comment on his post below.
ICYMI Sticky Fingers pulled out of Newcastle’s This That festival in July, following a public backlash, after previously facing allegations of racism and violence.
