Editorial: Is The World Really Looking At The Music Or The People Who Make It/ Listen To It?
Editorial by Cassandra "Davie" Rezentes
It's a disappointing notion when a coroner's report causes more of stir with its little comments on music more than the cause of death. The recent suicide of 13-year-old Hannah Bond of Kent (United Kingdom), and the coroner comments thereafter have left many listeners of emo music offended. But when the Daily Mail, a popular newspaper in the country, threw out an accusing, uneducated finger at New Jersey-based band My Chemical Romance, the band’s fans did something few others have done effectively.
They spoke out.
Now, over 300 teenagers are to gather in an organized peaceful protest against the Daily Mail . While many people are outright terrified of a mass gathering of emo teenagers, others are commending the My Chemical Romance fans. Look no further than the popular blogging site LiveJournal for the mixed reaction among the fanbase. Many people agree with this protest, some wishing they lived in the UK so that they could participate. Many others, however, are very concerned, fearing their message will be lost in the havoc of a public gathering.
http://www.whatthefrank.co.uk/ is the online headquarters of the peaceful protest, their front page clearly stating, “We hope to show that My Chemical Romance is not a ‘suicide cult’ - as the Daily Mail has called them in a recent article - but simply a rock band that wants to save people’s lives. Depression is a serious thing and careless journalism runs the risk of trivializing it; especially as far as teenage depression is concerned. My Chemical Romance have always tried to ward their fans away from depression and aid them in seeking help, even going as far as to call suicide hotline numbers from the stage.”
The question now is if anything will change. In early spring this year, emo kids that gathered in public areas through out Mexico were attacked by people claiming to be ‘anti-emo’. But before we go any further into that, let’s look into what emo is.
In theory, ‘emo’ means ‘emotional’, and is a kind of subculture that’s spread across the globe since the late 90’s. The generic fashion lines that separate the sexes are blurred and all ‘emo kids’ are synonymous with angst-filled, screaming rock and a lot of eye make up. What the sensible population is wondering is why would someone be compelled to hurt a stranger because they have their hair in their eyes and a band shirt on?
There seems to be little logic involved in the attacks on emo kids, other than simply fearing what’s different. One would hope that we live in a time that is far more sophisticated and mature to handle things like diversity, but it seems people are more concerned about teenage boys in girls’ jeans more than mass genocide in places like Darfur, Africa.
So let us look at the big picture of emo music and the emo subculture. Many young people are flocking into this subculture, and it leaves people scratching their heads. What’s so great about jeans that are too tight? What’s the big secret behind the asymmetrical hair? What was so wonderful about mullets in the 80’s and 90’s? It’s the same principle.
I Hear A Reason: Response To Attacks In Mexico
Written By the I Hear A Reason founders
It didn't go unnoticed by those of us who work here on I Hear A Reason, the recent attacks in Mexico towards those who call themselves emo. The notion left us disgusted, disappointed, and certainly very disapproving. I Hear A Reason is an organization put together to support people who love music and want or need something to believe in. We are a support group, but one thing we do not support is the use of violence against people who are different.
The acts against emo kids are cold-hearted and wrong. We believe that if you don't agree with something or someone, then you should speak this opinion and not beat it into a person. Using violence against others only causes complications for everyone and honestly doesn't help any situation. It's more constructive to communicate your disagreements.
An eye for an eye, and we'll all be blind.
Change is something that is always necessary in society; the world can't grow and better itself without change, and the people who remain the same need to learn that beating those who move with the tide isn't going to make things stay the same- it's going to make change happen faster, and usually for the worst.
To those of you who agree with the attacks:
Violence is not going to make people change for you- indeed, no one will change unless they want to. Beating up people who are different is something that is barbaric and immoral; just because someone is not like you, does not make it okay to attack them. No one is truly the same as someone else, and given the times, people should be mature and intelligent enough to voice their opinions, rather than lash out with violence and cruel intentions.
To those of you who disagree or were attacked:
It's understandable that these actions hurt you, offend you, and/or anger you. But attacking back is something that only gives those who hate you a sense of satisfaction. You sink to their level, which is something that I Hear A Reason hopes will never happen, because this organization knows that people are capable of great things, and we all hope that you know you don't have to do something that underhanded or cruel in order to prove yourself. True friends and your family care about you and value you for who you are, not who you beat up. We're here to help and support you through all life's challenges, and if ever there is a time you feel you need someone to talk to, someone is always here at IHAR. Just drop a line.
Word Of Mouth: My Chemical Romance
An Aritcle compiled by Cassandra Rezentes, with information courtesy My Chemical Romance fans and http://www.thankyouMCR.net/
In view of the latest controversy surrounding My Chemical Romance and it's fans, BGB Magazine took up the opportunity to ask My Chemical Romance's fans themselves a few questions. We're giving you an up-close-and-personal look into the hearts and minds of My Chemical Romance's fans, and how they view their favorite band.
The band was created in late 2001, early 2002 after lead singer Gerard Way saw firsthand the attacks on the Word Trade Center. In light of that traumatic event, he wrote the raw and inspiring song "Skylines and Turnstiles" to help cope with his feelings towards the tragedy. And so, My Chemical Romance began, and from the beginning had a message of hope and inspiration for their listeners.
But what did the fans have to say about the Daily Mail and its accusing articles, the march against the Daily Mail, the attacks on emo kids in Mexico, and the fandom itself?
Note all of the following is raw, unedited and unaltered from it's original context.
Lindsey, via an email interview-
What bothers me most about this situation is not that MCR got called an "emo cult" but rather the exploitation of this girl's death. My main problem with the Daily Mail's story is that the newspaper had the audacity to pick apart this girl's death during what should be a time of grieving for her family and friends. I won't place all of the blame on the Daily Mail, since her parents have handled this situation awfully as well. Correct me if I'm wrong, but didn't their daughter show them her self-inflicted scars? How is that not a warning sign? I think it's completely immature of the parents to blame MCR for their own shortcomings. However, the Daily Mail did not need to pick up on the story -- no matter how big of a fuss the parents were making. If the Daily Mail is going to call itself a newspaper, it should report NEWS. Don't get me wrong; it's tragic that a girl this young took her own life, but it happens every day. Newspapers cannot report every single death. Nothing about this death, in my opinion as a journalist, made it extraordinary enough for the Daily Mail to run countless stories on it. That might be harsh but it's true in the world of journalism.
Of course, I find the Daily Mail's portrayal of MCR to be asinine as well. I find it kind of funny that the newspaper says that the band promotes suicide when, clearly, many of their lyrics convey hope and they have always held an anti-violence and anti-suicide message. It's a lack of journalistic professionalism on the Mail's part. Their research is not thorough and their claims are not based in fact. It's a joke of a publication, really.
I have mixed feelings about the protest. On one hand, I'll commend the fans for supporting something they believe but on the other hand, I feel like they're going about it in the wrong way. This march is really coming across as a protest against MCR's portrayal in the media. If that's the case, I think the fans' priorities are beyond messed up. There are worse things about the situation than MCR being called an emo cult. As I said before, the exploitation of this girl's death and the insensitivity of the Daily Mail are far more appalling. The march just feels counterproductive to me. The Daily Mail is going to latch onto it and make another story out of it; it only promotes their claim that MCR fans are like a cult. Again, I appreciate the peaceful protest and their passion about the issue, but I feel like the fans are going to do more harm (to the situation, to themselves, and to MCR's reputation) than good.
This is going to make me sound like a bitch, but I miss how the "fandom" used to be. I had this conversation with a friend not too long ago and honestly, looking back to earlier years depresses me because I miss them so much. I do not resent the fact that MCR's gotten famous; in fact, I'm as proud as proud gets. It's just that you cannot deny that their popularity brought in a new breed of fan. The first time I saw MCR, the fans were as cool as it gets. There was no pushing, no shoving, and only one crowd surfer during the entire set. People were completely respectful of one another. That is something I haven't found at an MCR show in a long time and I'm sorry to say that. Not even a year after the first time I saw the band, I went to another one of their shows and had girls pulling my hair and telling me to move so they could see "my (meaning their) Gerard." What the hell is that? I miss when going to an MCR show was a sense of camaraderie. You felt like you were going to a show with people who were there for the same reasons as you -- the music, the experience. There are still some really cool MCR fans, don't get me wrong, but a lot of newer fans are too fanatical for my taste. This band is my world, but I would never yank another girl's hair or scratch at someone in order to get closer to the stage. There is a serious lack of respect in the pit. It just does not feel the same. I'm really not trying to be elitist here because I don't feel as if I'm better than anyone, but you really can't deny the newer fanbase. Some of it is very cult-like and overly fanatical. People are there completely for themselves. I'm not saying I go into a MCR show with the intentions of helping up every single person that falls down, but I am going to be respectful of those around me, have a good time, and help someone if they need it. I don't feel like a lot of fans share that mentality with me. There's nothing I can do about it though. It's just WEIRD for me to go to a MCR show and see a thirteen-year-old crying because Gerard is so beautiful or whatever. That is just so odd to me. One thing never changes though; the fans don't affect how I feel about the band.
Janelle via an email interview-
I think the accusations against the band are ridiculous. True, musicians, celebrities, & public figures have a huge impact on people, teenagers especially, but blame for a suicide should not be put on a band because of the actions of one fan. It is tragic what happened, but did her parents not notice her behavior? If, as a parent, you saw your child harming herself, would you not question what she was getting into? If you saw the issues she was having, would you not try to help her? I feel the band is being used as a sort of scapegoat in this.
I think the march is an excellent idea. Something needs to be done. Emo is constantly portrayed in a ridiculous fashion in the media, & no matter how many e-mails & letters are sent, no matter how many websites pop up, it seems like no one listens. The march, hopefully, will make a huge impression & will be taken seriously.
The fandom, for the most part, is excellent. In my experience, everyone is a part of it & willing to help each other out & stand up for the band in situations like this when it really counts, & clearly aren't going to sit & take abuse.
I hate the way the term "emo" is used these days, & it seems to be most often used by journalists who know little on the topic of which they are writing. Emo to me is a genre of music that's been around for thirty some years, not just the past few. It's not a true emotional state or a fashion style. That said, I find the attacks on "emo kids" horrible & a bit hypocritical. It was, to me, essentially one group of outsiders picking on another. What's the point? We need to move beyond hurting other people because they're different from us, & I feel if the media wouldn't portray these things the way they do, these things might not have ever have happened. They're promoting making judgments based on physical appearance & stereotyping. Does the fact that I wear dark eyeliner, tight jeans, & dark clothes mean that I'm unhappy? Not at all. This is 2008. We should know better by now.
Jenna via an email interview-
In an odd way, I guess I can see where the Daily Mail is coming from when they accused My Chemical Romance as being an American death-cult. They're different, and sure, their fans tend to dress in black and listen to Fallout Boy. It's so easy to look at them and assume that they are aggressive, disrespectful, ill-mannered people. The first time that I laid my eyes on MCR, I was only ten. I saw the black clothing, the dark drawings, and the angsty song titles. Maybe I was clueless at the time, because I thought they were the coolest people. From the way that the Daily Mail speaks about them, I am still clueless. I bet you any money that if I hadn't received Three Cheers For Sweet Revenge on my birthday that year I would have never started listening to them, and that I, like the rest of the public, would know them as "that emo band" from New Jersey. I am so lucky that my opinion wasn't corrupted already when I started listening to them. Now, four years later, I'm still trudging on, listening to MCR as loud as ever. The Daily Mail knows nothing about them, and you can tell by the false "facts" that MCR corrupted Hannah's mind. I've heard MCR been called many things, but never a death-cult. They really had no reason to say that. On the other hand, it just proves to me that people will do, or say anything to make money these days. The article itself obviously had no affect on my love for MCR, but just think about all of the worried parents out there, wondering if their children spend their time listening to American death-cults. As of now, I'm trying to ignore all of that crap that has been going on, and just be happy with the band that I know is not a suicide cult.
As for the “March on the Daily Mail” in a couple days, all I can say is that I wish I could be there! Maybe people are overreacting to all of this, but we just get tired of being called “trench coat wearing misfits from high school and beyond.” (Yes, I’m still quoting Evelyn McDonald.) I think it would be a good idea if those attending the march would try to raise money for something worth raising money for, instead of just standing around, crying over spilt milk. I’ve heard people online saying that we’re going to look more like a death cult when we all get together, wearing black and screaming out MCR quotes. I think it just shows what a bi family we are though, and that we aren’t afraid to stand up for what we believe in. I remember seeing MCR for the first time in Winnipeg, I was so worried! I thought that the other fans wouldn’t like me because I was a twelve year old girl who doesn’t wear as much black as maybe an MCR fan should. When I got there, I was every wrong. Everyone was so nice. I fit in perfectly! The march is a great idea, and I send my regards to those marching on Saturday!
As for the attacks on the “emo Mexicans,” I have nothing to say about that other than people need to find better things to do with their time. Although some kids don’t understand that listening to depressing lyrics, cutting themselves, or dressing in black doesn’t always make them look cool, maybe it’s just who they are. I wear a lot of black, and a lot of eyeliner for that matter, but I’d never cut myself, and I don’t listen to “emo” music all of the time. MCR happens to be my favourite band, and you can’t hate me because of that. They don’t know me; they don’t know that I have many bands that I listen to often, including very un-emo bands like Hot Hot Heat and Hot Chip. People think that just because I listen to MCR that they know me, but they really don’t. Just because these Mexican kids dress in black and listen to rock, it doesn’t mean that they are different from anyone else. Personally, I don't like Fallout Boy that much, but I would never judge a kid just because they listen to that type of music. We’re all humans, aren’t we? There are so many better things that people could be doing with their time other than making from of kids who are different from them.
So, pretty much, The Daily Mail needs to do some real research, the march is a good idea and will probably go over well (I have a feeling some unwanted haters are going to show up though), and people who attack emo kids really need to grow up. Please.
Caitlin via an essay previously written-
I would like to share my opinion on the current situation regarding the Daily Mail's accusations toward My Chemical Romance as well as the whole controversy pertaining to the "emo" genre of music and fan base. I am frankly disgusted with the accusations made by the Daily Mail. The newspaper has not only insulted My Chemical Romance by blaming them for the tragic suicide of a young teen, but has also insulted the My Chemical Romance fans by referring to us as a "suicide cult". These statements display ignorance beyond which I have never seen. It is no understatement to say that My Chemical Romance is a band that is responsible for saving, or positively changing, many lives. The band is very adament about their message, which is that they believe everyone should be true to themselves, be proud of who they are, and live their life to the fullest, the way they choose to live, regardless of the standards of others. My Chemical Romance strive to help teenagers and people of all ages to overcome difficulties in their lives, singing about real issues such as depression, loss, life and death, issues that we will all face. My Chemical Romance have also been known to state that they represent the outcasts and misfits of the world, and they are seen as heroes to those who have previously been ostracized for who they are. The band has proven to be very caring and appreciative of their fans, and have directly said, in a letter to the fans posted on their website at some point some time back, "Know that when you say 'My Chemical Romance saved my life' the feeling is mutual." Gerard Way, the lead singer and lyricist, has repeatedly enforced the belief that suicide is a terrible issue, and having been suicidal in his past, Way urges fans to love their lives, and to never consider such a route, stating to his fans that he believes no one or nothing is worth hurting yourself over. The band has also made it a point to say that, while they are inspiring in every way, their ultimate goal is for the fans to find a way to make it through life's obstacles on their own. With lyrics such as "I am not afraid to keep on living/I am not afraid to walk this world alone", Gerard Way has inspired people to not be afraid to be who they are, to be strong enough to survive when it seems as though all hope is lost, and has rescued people from dark periods of their lives. The music and overall attitude of My Chemical Romance is more than it appears to be in that the fan base has been referred to as "a different breed of fan", fans whose lives have been saved by the band. To acuse such a band as promoting self-harm or suicide in any way is not only offensive to us, but embarassingly ignorant on the part of the offender.
Rachie via an email interview
First of all, my opinion on some parents I've read about blaming MCR's The Black Parade on their children's suicide, is absolutely ridiculous. In my opinion, the parents are looking for a scapegoat. And they found one. But it really makes no sense. I've been so close to death before, so close, and the one thing I had to save me was My Chemical Romance. They've been my favorite band for years now, and when their album came out last year... it literally was the only thing I survived on. Without it, I don't know what would have happened, because last year was one of the hardest years of my life. And the whole album, inspired me to keep living. There is not one sound echoing throughout it that gives me any sort of want or need to commit suicide. Parents thinking that, really.. I don't think any parent with reason could truly one hundred percent believe this to be true.
The MCR 'fandom' is amazing. Going to shows.. you meet people you never thought you'd meet. There are people so similar to you, that can relate in such an intense way that it's.. almost overwhelming. I live for it. I can't think of a better way to spend my evening, ever. The music is really worth it, too. It's the kind of music you really have to have the taste for to absolutely love, but I can't think of anyone who doesn't atleast kinda like one MCR song. And those that hate them so, so sososososossoso much... it's not justified. Because My Chem is the most genuine band I've ever, ever come in contact with. Through it all, they're the same, and they're purley amazing. This paragraph does them no justice, nor does it do justice for my love for them. It's too great to explain. They really saved my life, and people who say that statement is overrated has no idea the truth behind it until they've witnessed it firsthand. It's like a miracle, or something.
I think the attacks on the "emo kids" in Mexico is horrible. I don't label people, really, it's not my thing. And I don't label myself, but if I were to label myself I wouldn't label myself emo. But still, nobody should be treated that way when experimenting with freedom of expression. In my opinion, it's all a little overdramatic, but the kids are standing up for what anyone deserves, which is freedom. I wish it would end, it's sad to hear about. I don't understand how it even started, but whatever.
Anonymously written
I am an American so I don't really know much about the Daily Mail. I do know that they have attacked EMO in the past saying it was a cult group that parents should watch out for. I remember Gerard saying that someone came up to him and told him the only thing the Daily Mail ever supported was the Nazi Youth Group. It seems to me that people would know not to believe everything they read from that paper if that statement is true. Then again we live in a society that is obsessed with fear of the unknown. EMO to outsiders probably seems like a lighter version of goth but we cut wrists instead of worshiping Satan. I've gotten accustom to people being naive about certain genres of music and people in general. No one is going to know everything about everyone. If someone is ill informed try your best to inform in a way that they will want to learn. Some people just love to attack and belittle others. You can't please or change the the whole world.
I honestly think the march was started by a bunch of young teenagers who haven't seen that the world is ignorant. I think it is going to cause more harm then good. If I where them I would say it is more of a protest against bad journalism then EMO or My Chemical Romance. Most journalist don't have time to properly research the topics they are writing about. I am very glad to see that you went straight to the source to get the facts right. Main stream news stations have fast deadlines and need ratings and to sell papers so they write or make shit up that will sell. Saying a little girl killed herself after listening to a death cult band is more interesting then a little girl had depression and her parents where misguided and didn't pay attention to her. Frank Iero is always saying stand up on a soap box and try to change the world for the better. I really hope these kids can do it. Will the media change their way? I really doubt it.
I've liked My Chem for over four years so it's safe to say I've seen it all. At the begging it was like a small club where you could go and talk about your problems and meet kids who where just like you. Then it started to break apart and older fans hated newer fans because they where impolite and over dramatic. Now most of the older fans have left and the newer more dramatic fans are left. They are great people but over react and run with their emotions. The older fans have been threw all of this before and know just to sit back and let it take its course.
My friend actually works for My Chem and I showed him a band I'm working for new music video. The band members happened to be wearing black and red. My friend said "You have to tell them to never wear black and red together again or they will be labeled EMO when they are not. The industry is unfortunately so based on looks that they will pigeon hold their whole career as EMO just for wearing black and red" My Chem try so hard to distance themselves from the name EMO but they can not shake it.
My friend did not want to go to Mexico at all. Afterwards he said the kids where great to them.
All of this said and done, we at BGB Magazine would like to thank the following websites:
My Living Romance: I'm Okay Now Project
I Hear A Reason
Thank You MCR
The Protest
Editorial by Cassandra "Davie" Rezentes
It's a disappointing notion when a coroner's report causes more of stir with its little comments on music more than the cause of death. The recent suicide of 13-year-old Hannah Bond of Kent (United Kingdom), and the coroner comments thereafter have left many listeners of emo music offended. But when the Daily Mail, a popular newspaper in the country, threw out an accusing, uneducated finger at New Jersey-based band My Chemical Romance, the band’s fans did something few others have done effectively.
They spoke out.
Now, over 300 teenagers are to gather in an organized peaceful protest against the Daily Mail . While many people are outright terrified of a mass gathering of emo teenagers, others are commending the My Chemical Romance fans. Look no further than the popular blogging site LiveJournal for the mixed reaction among the fanbase. Many people agree with this protest, some wishing they lived in the UK so that they could participate. Many others, however, are very concerned, fearing their message will be lost in the havoc of a public gathering.
http://www.whatthefrank.co.uk/ is the online headquarters of the peaceful protest, their front page clearly stating, “We hope to show that My Chemical Romance is not a ‘suicide cult’ - as the Daily Mail has called them in a recent article - but simply a rock band that wants to save people’s lives. Depression is a serious thing and careless journalism runs the risk of trivializing it; especially as far as teenage depression is concerned. My Chemical Romance have always tried to ward their fans away from depression and aid them in seeking help, even going as far as to call suicide hotline numbers from the stage.”
The question now is if anything will change. In early spring this year, emo kids that gathered in public areas through out Mexico were attacked by people claiming to be ‘anti-emo’. But before we go any further into that, let’s look into what emo is.
In theory, ‘emo’ means ‘emotional’, and is a kind of subculture that’s spread across the globe since the late 90’s. The generic fashion lines that separate the sexes are blurred and all ‘emo kids’ are synonymous with angst-filled, screaming rock and a lot of eye make up. What the sensible population is wondering is why would someone be compelled to hurt a stranger because they have their hair in their eyes and a band shirt on?
There seems to be little logic involved in the attacks on emo kids, other than simply fearing what’s different. One would hope that we live in a time that is far more sophisticated and mature to handle things like diversity, but it seems people are more concerned about teenage boys in girls’ jeans more than mass genocide in places like Darfur, Africa.
So let us look at the big picture of emo music and the emo subculture. Many young people are flocking into this subculture, and it leaves people scratching their heads. What’s so great about jeans that are too tight? What’s the big secret behind the asymmetrical hair? What was so wonderful about mullets in the 80’s and 90’s? It’s the same principle.
I Hear A Reason: Response To Attacks In Mexico
Written By the I Hear A Reason founders
It didn't go unnoticed by those of us who work here on I Hear A Reason, the recent attacks in Mexico towards those who call themselves emo. The notion left us disgusted, disappointed, and certainly very disapproving. I Hear A Reason is an organization put together to support people who love music and want or need something to believe in. We are a support group, but one thing we do not support is the use of violence against people who are different.
The acts against emo kids are cold-hearted and wrong. We believe that if you don't agree with something or someone, then you should speak this opinion and not beat it into a person. Using violence against others only causes complications for everyone and honestly doesn't help any situation. It's more constructive to communicate your disagreements.
An eye for an eye, and we'll all be blind.
Change is something that is always necessary in society; the world can't grow and better itself without change, and the people who remain the same need to learn that beating those who move with the tide isn't going to make things stay the same- it's going to make change happen faster, and usually for the worst.
To those of you who agree with the attacks:
Violence is not going to make people change for you- indeed, no one will change unless they want to. Beating up people who are different is something that is barbaric and immoral; just because someone is not like you, does not make it okay to attack them. No one is truly the same as someone else, and given the times, people should be mature and intelligent enough to voice their opinions, rather than lash out with violence and cruel intentions.
To those of you who disagree or were attacked:
It's understandable that these actions hurt you, offend you, and/or anger you. But attacking back is something that only gives those who hate you a sense of satisfaction. You sink to their level, which is something that I Hear A Reason hopes will never happen, because this organization knows that people are capable of great things, and we all hope that you know you don't have to do something that underhanded or cruel in order to prove yourself. True friends and your family care about you and value you for who you are, not who you beat up. We're here to help and support you through all life's challenges, and if ever there is a time you feel you need someone to talk to, someone is always here at IHAR. Just drop a line.
Word Of Mouth: My Chemical Romance
An Aritcle compiled by Cassandra Rezentes, with information courtesy My Chemical Romance fans and http://www.thankyouMCR.net/
In view of the latest controversy surrounding My Chemical Romance and it's fans, BGB Magazine took up the opportunity to ask My Chemical Romance's fans themselves a few questions. We're giving you an up-close-and-personal look into the hearts and minds of My Chemical Romance's fans, and how they view their favorite band.
The band was created in late 2001, early 2002 after lead singer Gerard Way saw firsthand the attacks on the Word Trade Center. In light of that traumatic event, he wrote the raw and inspiring song "Skylines and Turnstiles" to help cope with his feelings towards the tragedy. And so, My Chemical Romance began, and from the beginning had a message of hope and inspiration for their listeners.
But what did the fans have to say about the Daily Mail and its accusing articles, the march against the Daily Mail, the attacks on emo kids in Mexico, and the fandom itself?
Note all of the following is raw, unedited and unaltered from it's original context.
Lindsey, via an email interview-
What bothers me most about this situation is not that MCR got called an "emo cult" but rather the exploitation of this girl's death. My main problem with the Daily Mail's story is that the newspaper had the audacity to pick apart this girl's death during what should be a time of grieving for her family and friends. I won't place all of the blame on the Daily Mail, since her parents have handled this situation awfully as well. Correct me if I'm wrong, but didn't their daughter show them her self-inflicted scars? How is that not a warning sign? I think it's completely immature of the parents to blame MCR for their own shortcomings. However, the Daily Mail did not need to pick up on the story -- no matter how big of a fuss the parents were making. If the Daily Mail is going to call itself a newspaper, it should report NEWS. Don't get me wrong; it's tragic that a girl this young took her own life, but it happens every day. Newspapers cannot report every single death. Nothing about this death, in my opinion as a journalist, made it extraordinary enough for the Daily Mail to run countless stories on it. That might be harsh but it's true in the world of journalism.
Of course, I find the Daily Mail's portrayal of MCR to be asinine as well. I find it kind of funny that the newspaper says that the band promotes suicide when, clearly, many of their lyrics convey hope and they have always held an anti-violence and anti-suicide message. It's a lack of journalistic professionalism on the Mail's part. Their research is not thorough and their claims are not based in fact. It's a joke of a publication, really.
I have mixed feelings about the protest. On one hand, I'll commend the fans for supporting something they believe but on the other hand, I feel like they're going about it in the wrong way. This march is really coming across as a protest against MCR's portrayal in the media. If that's the case, I think the fans' priorities are beyond messed up. There are worse things about the situation than MCR being called an emo cult. As I said before, the exploitation of this girl's death and the insensitivity of the Daily Mail are far more appalling. The march just feels counterproductive to me. The Daily Mail is going to latch onto it and make another story out of it; it only promotes their claim that MCR fans are like a cult. Again, I appreciate the peaceful protest and their passion about the issue, but I feel like the fans are going to do more harm (to the situation, to themselves, and to MCR's reputation) than good.
This is going to make me sound like a bitch, but I miss how the "fandom" used to be. I had this conversation with a friend not too long ago and honestly, looking back to earlier years depresses me because I miss them so much. I do not resent the fact that MCR's gotten famous; in fact, I'm as proud as proud gets. It's just that you cannot deny that their popularity brought in a new breed of fan. The first time I saw MCR, the fans were as cool as it gets. There was no pushing, no shoving, and only one crowd surfer during the entire set. People were completely respectful of one another. That is something I haven't found at an MCR show in a long time and I'm sorry to say that. Not even a year after the first time I saw the band, I went to another one of their shows and had girls pulling my hair and telling me to move so they could see "my (meaning their) Gerard." What the hell is that? I miss when going to an MCR show was a sense of camaraderie. You felt like you were going to a show with people who were there for the same reasons as you -- the music, the experience. There are still some really cool MCR fans, don't get me wrong, but a lot of newer fans are too fanatical for my taste. This band is my world, but I would never yank another girl's hair or scratch at someone in order to get closer to the stage. There is a serious lack of respect in the pit. It just does not feel the same. I'm really not trying to be elitist here because I don't feel as if I'm better than anyone, but you really can't deny the newer fanbase. Some of it is very cult-like and overly fanatical. People are there completely for themselves. I'm not saying I go into a MCR show with the intentions of helping up every single person that falls down, but I am going to be respectful of those around me, have a good time, and help someone if they need it. I don't feel like a lot of fans share that mentality with me. There's nothing I can do about it though. It's just WEIRD for me to go to a MCR show and see a thirteen-year-old crying because Gerard is so beautiful or whatever. That is just so odd to me. One thing never changes though; the fans don't affect how I feel about the band.
Janelle via an email interview-
I think the accusations against the band are ridiculous. True, musicians, celebrities, & public figures have a huge impact on people, teenagers especially, but blame for a suicide should not be put on a band because of the actions of one fan. It is tragic what happened, but did her parents not notice her behavior? If, as a parent, you saw your child harming herself, would you not question what she was getting into? If you saw the issues she was having, would you not try to help her? I feel the band is being used as a sort of scapegoat in this.
I think the march is an excellent idea. Something needs to be done. Emo is constantly portrayed in a ridiculous fashion in the media, & no matter how many e-mails & letters are sent, no matter how many websites pop up, it seems like no one listens. The march, hopefully, will make a huge impression & will be taken seriously.
The fandom, for the most part, is excellent. In my experience, everyone is a part of it & willing to help each other out & stand up for the band in situations like this when it really counts, & clearly aren't going to sit & take abuse.
I hate the way the term "emo" is used these days, & it seems to be most often used by journalists who know little on the topic of which they are writing. Emo to me is a genre of music that's been around for thirty some years, not just the past few. It's not a true emotional state or a fashion style. That said, I find the attacks on "emo kids" horrible & a bit hypocritical. It was, to me, essentially one group of outsiders picking on another. What's the point? We need to move beyond hurting other people because they're different from us, & I feel if the media wouldn't portray these things the way they do, these things might not have ever have happened. They're promoting making judgments based on physical appearance & stereotyping. Does the fact that I wear dark eyeliner, tight jeans, & dark clothes mean that I'm unhappy? Not at all. This is 2008. We should know better by now.
Jenna via an email interview-
In an odd way, I guess I can see where the Daily Mail is coming from when they accused My Chemical Romance as being an American death-cult. They're different, and sure, their fans tend to dress in black and listen to Fallout Boy. It's so easy to look at them and assume that they are aggressive, disrespectful, ill-mannered people. The first time that I laid my eyes on MCR, I was only ten. I saw the black clothing, the dark drawings, and the angsty song titles. Maybe I was clueless at the time, because I thought they were the coolest people. From the way that the Daily Mail speaks about them, I am still clueless. I bet you any money that if I hadn't received Three Cheers For Sweet Revenge on my birthday that year I would have never started listening to them, and that I, like the rest of the public, would know them as "that emo band" from New Jersey. I am so lucky that my opinion wasn't corrupted already when I started listening to them. Now, four years later, I'm still trudging on, listening to MCR as loud as ever. The Daily Mail knows nothing about them, and you can tell by the false "facts" that MCR corrupted Hannah's mind. I've heard MCR been called many things, but never a death-cult. They really had no reason to say that. On the other hand, it just proves to me that people will do, or say anything to make money these days. The article itself obviously had no affect on my love for MCR, but just think about all of the worried parents out there, wondering if their children spend their time listening to American death-cults. As of now, I'm trying to ignore all of that crap that has been going on, and just be happy with the band that I know is not a suicide cult.
As for the “March on the Daily Mail” in a couple days, all I can say is that I wish I could be there! Maybe people are overreacting to all of this, but we just get tired of being called “trench coat wearing misfits from high school and beyond.” (Yes, I’m still quoting Evelyn McDonald.) I think it would be a good idea if those attending the march would try to raise money for something worth raising money for, instead of just standing around, crying over spilt milk. I’ve heard people online saying that we’re going to look more like a death cult when we all get together, wearing black and screaming out MCR quotes. I think it just shows what a bi family we are though, and that we aren’t afraid to stand up for what we believe in. I remember seeing MCR for the first time in Winnipeg, I was so worried! I thought that the other fans wouldn’t like me because I was a twelve year old girl who doesn’t wear as much black as maybe an MCR fan should. When I got there, I was every wrong. Everyone was so nice. I fit in perfectly! The march is a great idea, and I send my regards to those marching on Saturday!
As for the attacks on the “emo Mexicans,” I have nothing to say about that other than people need to find better things to do with their time. Although some kids don’t understand that listening to depressing lyrics, cutting themselves, or dressing in black doesn’t always make them look cool, maybe it’s just who they are. I wear a lot of black, and a lot of eyeliner for that matter, but I’d never cut myself, and I don’t listen to “emo” music all of the time. MCR happens to be my favourite band, and you can’t hate me because of that. They don’t know me; they don’t know that I have many bands that I listen to often, including very un-emo bands like Hot Hot Heat and Hot Chip. People think that just because I listen to MCR that they know me, but they really don’t. Just because these Mexican kids dress in black and listen to rock, it doesn’t mean that they are different from anyone else. Personally, I don't like Fallout Boy that much, but I would never judge a kid just because they listen to that type of music. We’re all humans, aren’t we? There are so many better things that people could be doing with their time other than making from of kids who are different from them.
So, pretty much, The Daily Mail needs to do some real research, the march is a good idea and will probably go over well (I have a feeling some unwanted haters are going to show up though), and people who attack emo kids really need to grow up. Please.
Caitlin via an essay previously written-
I would like to share my opinion on the current situation regarding the Daily Mail's accusations toward My Chemical Romance as well as the whole controversy pertaining to the "emo" genre of music and fan base. I am frankly disgusted with the accusations made by the Daily Mail. The newspaper has not only insulted My Chemical Romance by blaming them for the tragic suicide of a young teen, but has also insulted the My Chemical Romance fans by referring to us as a "suicide cult". These statements display ignorance beyond which I have never seen. It is no understatement to say that My Chemical Romance is a band that is responsible for saving, or positively changing, many lives. The band is very adament about their message, which is that they believe everyone should be true to themselves, be proud of who they are, and live their life to the fullest, the way they choose to live, regardless of the standards of others. My Chemical Romance strive to help teenagers and people of all ages to overcome difficulties in their lives, singing about real issues such as depression, loss, life and death, issues that we will all face. My Chemical Romance have also been known to state that they represent the outcasts and misfits of the world, and they are seen as heroes to those who have previously been ostracized for who they are. The band has proven to be very caring and appreciative of their fans, and have directly said, in a letter to the fans posted on their website at some point some time back, "Know that when you say 'My Chemical Romance saved my life' the feeling is mutual." Gerard Way, the lead singer and lyricist, has repeatedly enforced the belief that suicide is a terrible issue, and having been suicidal in his past, Way urges fans to love their lives, and to never consider such a route, stating to his fans that he believes no one or nothing is worth hurting yourself over. The band has also made it a point to say that, while they are inspiring in every way, their ultimate goal is for the fans to find a way to make it through life's obstacles on their own. With lyrics such as "I am not afraid to keep on living/I am not afraid to walk this world alone", Gerard Way has inspired people to not be afraid to be who they are, to be strong enough to survive when it seems as though all hope is lost, and has rescued people from dark periods of their lives. The music and overall attitude of My Chemical Romance is more than it appears to be in that the fan base has been referred to as "a different breed of fan", fans whose lives have been saved by the band. To acuse such a band as promoting self-harm or suicide in any way is not only offensive to us, but embarassingly ignorant on the part of the offender.
Rachie via an email interview
First of all, my opinion on some parents I've read about blaming MCR's The Black Parade on their children's suicide, is absolutely ridiculous. In my opinion, the parents are looking for a scapegoat. And they found one. But it really makes no sense. I've been so close to death before, so close, and the one thing I had to save me was My Chemical Romance. They've been my favorite band for years now, and when their album came out last year... it literally was the only thing I survived on. Without it, I don't know what would have happened, because last year was one of the hardest years of my life. And the whole album, inspired me to keep living. There is not one sound echoing throughout it that gives me any sort of want or need to commit suicide. Parents thinking that, really.. I don't think any parent with reason could truly one hundred percent believe this to be true.
The MCR 'fandom' is amazing. Going to shows.. you meet people you never thought you'd meet. There are people so similar to you, that can relate in such an intense way that it's.. almost overwhelming. I live for it. I can't think of a better way to spend my evening, ever. The music is really worth it, too. It's the kind of music you really have to have the taste for to absolutely love, but I can't think of anyone who doesn't atleast kinda like one MCR song. And those that hate them so, so sososososossoso much... it's not justified. Because My Chem is the most genuine band I've ever, ever come in contact with. Through it all, they're the same, and they're purley amazing. This paragraph does them no justice, nor does it do justice for my love for them. It's too great to explain. They really saved my life, and people who say that statement is overrated has no idea the truth behind it until they've witnessed it firsthand. It's like a miracle, or something.
I think the attacks on the "emo kids" in Mexico is horrible. I don't label people, really, it's not my thing. And I don't label myself, but if I were to label myself I wouldn't label myself emo. But still, nobody should be treated that way when experimenting with freedom of expression. In my opinion, it's all a little overdramatic, but the kids are standing up for what anyone deserves, which is freedom. I wish it would end, it's sad to hear about. I don't understand how it even started, but whatever.
Anonymously written
I am an American so I don't really know much about the Daily Mail. I do know that they have attacked EMO in the past saying it was a cult group that parents should watch out for. I remember Gerard saying that someone came up to him and told him the only thing the Daily Mail ever supported was the Nazi Youth Group. It seems to me that people would know not to believe everything they read from that paper if that statement is true. Then again we live in a society that is obsessed with fear of the unknown. EMO to outsiders probably seems like a lighter version of goth but we cut wrists instead of worshiping Satan. I've gotten accustom to people being naive about certain genres of music and people in general. No one is going to know everything about everyone. If someone is ill informed try your best to inform in a way that they will want to learn. Some people just love to attack and belittle others. You can't please or change the the whole world.
I honestly think the march was started by a bunch of young teenagers who haven't seen that the world is ignorant. I think it is going to cause more harm then good. If I where them I would say it is more of a protest against bad journalism then EMO or My Chemical Romance. Most journalist don't have time to properly research the topics they are writing about. I am very glad to see that you went straight to the source to get the facts right. Main stream news stations have fast deadlines and need ratings and to sell papers so they write or make shit up that will sell. Saying a little girl killed herself after listening to a death cult band is more interesting then a little girl had depression and her parents where misguided and didn't pay attention to her. Frank Iero is always saying stand up on a soap box and try to change the world for the better. I really hope these kids can do it. Will the media change their way? I really doubt it.
I've liked My Chem for over four years so it's safe to say I've seen it all. At the begging it was like a small club where you could go and talk about your problems and meet kids who where just like you. Then it started to break apart and older fans hated newer fans because they where impolite and over dramatic. Now most of the older fans have left and the newer more dramatic fans are left. They are great people but over react and run with their emotions. The older fans have been threw all of this before and know just to sit back and let it take its course.
My friend actually works for My Chem and I showed him a band I'm working for new music video. The band members happened to be wearing black and red. My friend said "You have to tell them to never wear black and red together again or they will be labeled EMO when they are not. The industry is unfortunately so based on looks that they will pigeon hold their whole career as EMO just for wearing black and red" My Chem try so hard to distance themselves from the name EMO but they can not shake it.
My friend did not want to go to Mexico at all. Afterwards he said the kids where great to them.
All of this said and done, we at BGB Magazine would like to thank the following websites:
My Living Romance: I'm Okay Now Project
I Hear A Reason
Thank You MCR
The Protest
