Michale Graves, the former singer of the horror punk band Misfits, has issued a statement after a number of his concerts in the United Kingdom were canceled, reportedly due to his connection to the Proud Boys and his previous far-right remarks and actions.
In 2020, he publicly endorsed the Proud Boys, a far-right organization formed in 2016 by Gavin McInnes, the co-founder of Vice Media. McInnes later distanced himself from the group.
Members of the Proud Boys were federally indicted on seditious conspiracy charges over their alleged role in the attack on the United States Capitol on January 6, 2021. More than 100 members of the group joined the Capitol riot, according to the BBC.
Graves later testified that he was asked to perform for five Proud Boys members on the afternoon of January 6, 2021. Reuters reported at the time that the Proud Boys' lawyers said this showed they had no intention of attacking the Capitol.
According to a post on Graves' Instagram on January 9, Graves originally had nine tour dates in the United Kingdom in February and March. As of Thursday morning, an updated tour poster shows he now has five dates in the U.K., including shows in London, Reading, Worcester, Corby, and Oxford.
In a statement shared on social media, Graves wrote, "I've become aware of an aggressive online campaign of organizations and individuals focused on my upcoming shows in Europe. I respect that people may hold different opinions or choose not to attend these shows."
"I want to be very clear: my shows are about music, community, and shared passion. I do not promote violence, hatred, or harm, and those who have attended my performances know that my focus has always been bringing people together through music. All are welcome," he added.
A councillor for the city of Worcester, where Graves has one of his remaining tour dates, spoke out against Graves and the venue for hosting him.
Neil Laurensen, of the left-wing Green party, told the BBC, "I will never set foot in [The Marrs Bar] ever again...I'm embarrassed, I'm ashamed for Worcester."
Michale Graves said in a statement shared to social media: "The live music scene should remain a safe and inclusive space for everyone -- artists, fans, venue staff, and local communities alike. No one should feel unsafe or intimidated for participating in or supporting live music events. If my music is not for you, I fully respect your choice not to attend.
"However, I respectfully ask that disagreements remain peaceful and that the hardworking people behind these venues are treated with respect. I look forward to performing for those who wish to be there and sharing music in a positive, safe and respectful environment."
Graves will play shows in the U.K., Spain and Portugal in February and March.