Turnstile releases statement regarding state violence following Grammy wins
After a successful Grammy night, Turnstile finds itself in a unique position among hardcore bands, holding two prestigious awards. The Baltimore group took home the Best Rock Album for Never Enough and the Best Metal Performance for their song “Birds.” Acknowledging their achievement, they used their platform to address pressing issues of displacement and state violence in a recent Instagram post. They reflected on the current state of heightened violence and people being forced out of their homes in various parts of the world, emphasizing a sense of belonging and solidarity among all individuals.
The band’s Instagram statement, accompanied by footage of Brendan Yates’ acceptance speech for Best Rock Album, focused on their collective identity and the importance of unity over individual recognition. Describing their band as part of a collective searching for common ground in a divided world, Turnstile challenged the notion of outsiders dictating who belongs and where people fit in society. They rejected societal labels and norms, claiming their music serves as a platform for marginalized voices and a place for those who feel alienated from mainstream narratives.
Despite their Grammy wins, Turnstile faced criticism from some hardcore fans for not using their platform to speak out against state violence during the awards ceremony. Additionally, their brief “Abolish ICE” image shared on their Stories received mixed reactions, with former band member Brady Ebert accusing them of political pandering. Nevertheless, the band’s statement focused on gratitude and appreciation for their supporters, partners, and the city of Baltimore that nurtured their music. They placed their Grammy wins within the context of a world marked by displacement, policing, and conflict, highlighting the ongoing challenges faced by marginalized communities even after the cameras stop rolling.
Turnstile’s message resonates beyond the music industry, touching on broader themes of belonging, displacement, and collective identity that are relevant in today’s world. Their words serve as a reminder of the power of music to amplify voices that are often silenced and to unite individuals in the face of societal divisions. As they navigate their newfound success, Turnstile remains committed to their ethos of inclusivity and resistance to societal norms, embodying a sense of community and solidarity in a world marked by violence and uncertainty.