Anti-semitism and anti-ukraine are not tolerated in music. BMG terminates contract with Pink Floyd co‑founder Roger Waters
As reported by media, BMG’s thought decision was made after the latest comments of Waters, who criticized Israelis in a way that can easily be called hate speech.
12:23 PM EST, January 31, 2024
Could we still buy Pink Floyd albums?
In light of Roger Waters' controversial political stances and comments, Pink Floyd's storied legacy, which reached its zenith during Waters' early years with the band, is now under scrutiny. His recent actions, including an address at the United Nations Security Council and statements perceived by some as antisemitic, have sparked widespread criticism. Despite the backlash, Waters remains steadfast in his views, often repeating them during his tours. This controversy has strained his relationships with former Pink Floyd bandmates and cast a shadow over the sale of the band's music catalog, valued at an estimated $500 million. Potential buyers appear hesitant to proceed with the acquisition, signaling the impact of Waters' actions on Pink Floyd's enduring musical influence.
Roger Waters' 2016 contract with BMG has been scrutinized in a twist in the music industry. In a conversation with journalist Glenn Greenwald last November, Waters casually mentioned that BMG had "fired" him, though neither Waters nor BMG have formally confirmed this development. Sources close to Variety indicate that BMG's Coesfeld was at the helm of this decision.
This revelation follows a statement by Bertelsmann, the parent company of BMG, expressing solidarity with Israel after the Hamas attack on October 7. The connection between these events remains a topic of speculation in the music world.
Sources: brooklynvegan; rockcelebrities
