Major Labels, the Recording Academy Condemn Hamas Attacks in Israel – Billboard

Following Hamas’ attacks throughout Israel this past weekend and Israel’s current bombardment of Gaza, the three major labels, along with the Recording Academy, have released statements condemning Hamas.

In a statement posted Thursday to X, the platform previously called Twitter, Warner Music Group wrote, “We condemn the terrorist attack on Israel by Hamas and the massacre of innocent lives. We oppose antisemitism and we stand with Israel and the Jewish community around the world. We’re against all all forms of discrimination and racism. We wish peace for all people.”

Warner’s statement then goes on to list four humanitarian organizations providing aid and relief.

Sony Music also released a statement Thursday: “Today we held support sessions for our teams around the world with anti-hate and counseling organizations to reflect on the horrific terrorist attacks by Hamas in Israel,” it reads. “As we reminded our people earlier this week, Sony Music Group is committed to preserving human rights in the world as well as fostering respect for everyone and we have a long standing commitment to opposing hatred and bigotry including antisemitism. We deplore violence against civilians and we always hope for peaceful resolution of all conflict. We will continue to campaign for these causes.”

A statement from Universal Music Group also released on Thursday states that “there are no words strong enough to adequately condemn the barbaric acts committed by Hamas terrorists in Israel last week. Tragically, we recognize that these terrorist acts will cause violence and hate to spiral, with the rise of both Israeli and Palestinian civilian casualties and the anti-Semitism and other forms of bigotry that will inevitably follow.

“We are music people, this statement continues. “Through the music we help bring to the world, we enable people of every background to grasp their shared humanity. We must therefore promote and encourage tolerance, empathy and understanding, and effort that begins at home and in the workplace. As we work to ensure the safety of our employees and artists in the region, we fervently support the global call for peace and urge those with power and influence to work toward that goal.”

A Thursday statement by the Recording Academy states, “As we see the violence continue, we struggle to find the right words. As an organization that promotes the unifying and healing power of music, we are shocked and heartbroken by the terrorist attacks in Israel, including the massacre that took place at a music festival where innocent civilians had gathered for a joyful night of music. We are praying for peace and protection for all who are suffering during this terrifying time.”