According to a prominent figure in the Montreal music scene, concertgoers upset by allegations of sexual misconduct against Arcade Fire frontman Win Butler should be refunded for their tickets to the band’s upcoming world tour.
According to Pitchfork’s music news website, Butler was accused of four different things. The CBC was unable to confirm Pitchfork’s claims independently.
Between 2016 and 2020, three women accused Butler of sexual misconduct. Butler was between 36 and 39, while the women were between 18 and 23. According to one source, Butler is charged with assaulting a person twice when they were 21 and he was 34.
Allegations include unwanted sexual text messages, photos, and coerced touching. Even though the alleged interactions were inappropriate due to age differences and unequal power dynamics, the people told Pitchfork that they felt powerless to reject Butler.
In response to the allegations, Butler claimed that all interactions were voluntary and that he never touched a woman against her will.
He apologized for his “pain” and for not being “more tuned in to the effect I have on people.”
Furthermore, he discussed how, at the time of the alleged incidents, his family had just experienced a miscarriage, which had led to depression and alcohol abuse.
“I have interacted with people in person, at events, and on social media, and I have shared messages of which I am not proud,” the statement said.
“Most importantly, these interactions have been reciprocal, involving adults who have given their consent.” Anyone who suggests otherwise is deeply revisionist and, quite simply, incorrect.”
The band’s world tour is currently on schedule, and it is set to begin in Dublin on Tuesday. Whether the time should be canceled or not, Daniel Seligman, the creative director of the POP Montreal music festival, believes accountability is required.
People on social media demanded refunds or the tour’s cancellation over the weekend in response to Butler’s allegations.
Changing ‘toxic’ Music Industry Culture
Seligman, a musician in Montreal for over ten years who has collaborated on several occasions with Arcade Fire, claimed that the music industry has a long history of toxic behavior. In his words, the allegations were a “wake-up call.”
“I think we know a lot more about how those power dynamics work,” Seligman said, “and hopefully, he realizes he can’t do that.” The stereotypical rockstar sleeping with a groupie.
According to Seligman, there is a lot of enabling in this world. “It’s upsetting because there are people nearby who allow it to happen.” Seligman last worked with Arcade Fire at the POP vs. Jock charity basketball game in 2016, where Butler first met one of the accusing women.
He claimed Butler was disrespectful to POP Montreal employees, many of whom said they would no longer work with the band, and demanded payment from the charity for event-related expenses.
“It’s unsettling,” Seligman said. “That wasn’t a pleasant experience, and it was difficult to see how he used it to prey on a younger woman.” Butler’s bandmate and wife, Régine Chassagne, also stated her support.
“I know what is in his heart,” Chassagne said in the statement, “and I know he has never, and would never, touch a woman without her consent, and I am certain he never did.” “He became disoriented, but he now knows where he is.” I treasure our friendship and the life we’ve created together.”