Music world pays respects following Manchester Arena attack

Music world pays respects following Manchester Arena attack

A raft of artists and music industry leaders have been paying tribute to those affected by the explosion at last night’s Ariana Grande Manchester Arena show.

News of an explosion outside the venue was reported just moments after the show had finished at approximately 10.30pm , with police currently stating that 22 people have died and around 59 others have been injured. It has since been confirmed that the attack was carried out by one man who died at the scene after detonating an explosive device.

Throughout the evening and early this morning, the international music community has been paying its respects to those affected.

UK Music chief executive, Michael Dugher, said: "Our thoughts and prayers go out to all those affected by this horrific attack. It is even more distressing that children and teenagers have been targeted. We owe a huge debt of gratitude to our brave emergency services and the venue staff. We know venues take security very seriously and do all they can to minimise risks, including training staff how to deal with major incidents. As a result of police investigations there will no doubt be a further review of these measures.

"Music has the power to bring people together and is so often a celebration of peace and love. We will not let terrorism and the politics of violence, hatred and division conquer that spirit."

Geoff Taylor, chief executive, BPI and BRIT Awards, has also commented: "Our thoughts and prayers are with all the families and music fans caught up in the horrific attack in Manchester. Music is a force for peace and love that unites us, however much those with hate in their hearts may try to divide us."

Live Nation also issued the following statement: “We are deeply saddened by this senseless tragedy and our hearts and thoughts are with those impacted by this devastating incident.”

Meanwhile, The O2 stated: "Along with everyone else, we are shocked and saddened by the terrible tragedy in Manchester. Our thoughts and prayers are with those affected and their families."

"Ariana is due to perform at The O2 on Thursday and Friday and we will advise as soon as we can as to the status of those shows." 

Liverpool Echo Arena also issued a statement: "Our thoughts are with those affected by the devastating tragedy in Manchester. Our sympathies go out to everyone at this tragic time."

Many others, including Grande, have taken to Twitter to pay tribute to the victims of the attack.

 



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