California post-hardcore act Slaves are the latest group to scrub their band name due to its racial connotations.
The band — not to be confused by the U.K. duo of the same name — made the announcement via their socials, though they have yet to reveal a new moniker. The move follows similar decisions by Dixie Chicks (now the Chicks) and Lady Antebellum (now Lady A).
"The name 'Slaves' was conceived as a reference to the band's battle with substance abuse in the past, to the idea that we become enslaved by our addictions and by our own demons," the band wrote. "Our goal has always been to tackle these difficult subjects head on, as well as to build a community and share stories of hope to let others know that their inner demons can be defeated."
They continue: "However, this definition of the name neglects to take ownership of its racial connotations. As obstinate supporters of the BLM movement, we cannot continue to tie our music and our positive message to a word associated with such negative weight and hurt."
And while the group have yet to reveal a new name, they will keep using Slaves for their upcoming album To Better Days.
"To Better Days will represent the closing of one chapter and the beginning of another for the band," they explain. "This is something we have been planning for a while and are excited to start unveiling new music, new name, later this year."
To Better Days will be released on August 7 via SBG Records.
You can find Slaves' full post below.
The band — not to be confused by the U.K. duo of the same name — made the announcement via their socials, though they have yet to reveal a new moniker. The move follows similar decisions by Dixie Chicks (now the Chicks) and Lady Antebellum (now Lady A).
"The name 'Slaves' was conceived as a reference to the band's battle with substance abuse in the past, to the idea that we become enslaved by our addictions and by our own demons," the band wrote. "Our goal has always been to tackle these difficult subjects head on, as well as to build a community and share stories of hope to let others know that their inner demons can be defeated."
They continue: "However, this definition of the name neglects to take ownership of its racial connotations. As obstinate supporters of the BLM movement, we cannot continue to tie our music and our positive message to a word associated with such negative weight and hurt."
And while the group have yet to reveal a new name, they will keep using Slaves for their upcoming album To Better Days.
"To Better Days will represent the closing of one chapter and the beginning of another for the band," they explain. "This is something we have been planning for a while and are excited to start unveiling new music, new name, later this year."
To Better Days will be released on August 7 via SBG Records.
You can find Slaves' full post below.
