Mystery Jets’ Blaine Harrison has “huge respect” for artists in Great Escape boycott but “no shade on those that haven’t” as he shares advice

nme.com:

Mystery Jets’ Blaine Harrison has said he has “huge respect” for those boycotting The Great Escape, but insists there is “no shade on those who haven’t”.The 2024 edition of the event – which showcases new and rising artists – is currently taking place across various music venues in Brighton until Saturday (May 18).The Great Escape is sponsored by Barclays, which has been a source of controversy amid the ongoing conflict in Gaza because of the bank’s financial investment in companies that supply arms to Israel.Harrison has weighed in on the topic now, writing in a lengthy social media post: “Huge respect for the 100+ artists who have pulled out of The Great Escape in Brighton this weekend on the grounds of its sponsorship by Barclaycard, who are actively supporting the genocide and horrific war crimes in Gaza by investing in companies supplying arms to Israel.”As The Great Escape kicks off in Brighton today, huge respect for the 100+ artists who have pulled out due to the sponsorship by barclaycard.

But no shade on those that haven’t. Here are my thoughts on it #bandsboycottbarclays#ceasefirenow pic.twitter.com/xEoFEt8qsT— Blaine (@blaineharrison) May 15, 2024“As one of the biggest music showcases in Europe, it’s important to recognise the sacrifice new artists are making by pulling out of potentially the most important show of their career so far,” he added.“At a time when it’s harder than ever to make a viable living in music, the artists boycotting will be forgoing the chance to be discovered by managers, labels, publishers, agents and promoters.

And most of all, new fans – the majority of who will not be entitled to ticket refunds.”Harrison then went on to address the bands who have not pulled out of playing the.