It’s fine if someone doesn’t like, or understand metal. It really is an acquired taste. Though when you’re not a fan, it’s probably a good idea to steer clear of labelling it. CNN writer Lonnie Nasatir has found out first hand the consequnces of talking about something you know nothing about after receiving a massive backlash for including Hatebreed in a list of white supremacist bands.
Fans of Hatebreed were first on the scene after the opinion piece ‘Hate With A Beat – White Power Music’, berating the article as absolute crap. It wasn’t long before the band themselves caught wind of the inappropriate label and took to Twitter to retaliate, labeling CNN as hacks.
The article, attempting to prove insight into the white power music scene, was written after the recent terrible Sikh temple massacre in Wisconsin. Gunmamn Wade Page, who murdered six people before killing himself after being shot and wounded by a police officer, was featured in a handful of white power metal bands, so of course that must mean that every metal band is a white power band.
Though their name was removed from the list following overwhelming response from fans, the Grammy award-nominated Hatebreed are still awaiting an apology, which seems fair enough given the serious repercussions such an association could have on their brand.
Please everyone tweet @CNN & @ChicagoADL demanding that they remove our name from their article. Help us find a contact for Lonnie Nasatir.
— Hatebreed (@hatebreed) August 8, 2012
Everyone stay relentless on @chicagoadl @cnn & @cnnopinion until they remove our name from their article & print a retraction/apology.
— Hatebreed (@hatebreed) August 8, 2012
Again @CNN loses all respect. First they ignore the #FREERANDYBLYTHE story now they slander us. We demand a retraction & an apology. #hacks
— Hatebreed (@hatebreed) August 8, 2012
Writers like Lonnie Nasatir are the reason why the American media is looked at as a complete joke. Shame on @CNN & @chicagoadl @cnnopinion
— Hatebreed (@hatebreed) August 8, 2012
Our music brings people of all races together all over the world. @CNN @cnnopinion & @chicagoADL need to get their facts straight.
— Hatebreed (@hatebreed) August 8, 2012
Our name has been removed from the article. Thanks to all of our fans!
— Hatebreed (@hatebreed) August 8, 2012
CNN has posted an update to their story: A previous version of this commentary incorrectly included the band… http://t.co/GZp48G3d
— Hatebreed (@hatebreed) August 8, 2012
Some things CNN & Lonnie Nasatir forgot to include in their story. Hatebreed have been nominated for a grammy,… http://t.co/CWI6xf8c
— Hatebreed (@hatebreed) August 8, 2012