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After allegations against win butler, an existential crisis lingers for montréal.

Yara El-Soueidi

"I usually write," Élise Jetté laughs. "It's hard to speak about a very emotional subject like this one."

The freelance music journalist had always been a fan of Arcade Fire . More than just one of her favorite bands, Arcade Fire defined her career. The band that made her a music journalist. As a young student at Université de Sherbrooke, she had gone to three shows, back-to-back, before the release of The Suburbs , the band's Grammy-winning record.

"Being at their show at the time had the same energy as being at church in front of a priest," Jetté says. "We were all there, in front of them, glorifying them. They were... I don't want to say gods... but they were so highly respected and loved!"

Since forming in 2001, Arcade Fire had been one of the brightest gems in Montréal's musical crown. Led by Win Butler, an American who grew up in Texas, and Régine Chassagne, a Francophone Québécoise with Haitian roots, the band symbolizes the reality for many Montréalais and Montréalaises: Living in a city that mixes French and English in every aspect of its being. A city where people come to find themselves through cold winters and hot summers, through language barriers that are erased in gatherings. Living in a city that prides itself on its cultural scene and mostly its music, whether it is produced in French or English. For the last two decades, Arcade Fire has been the most visible export of that scene.

But since the end of August, the Montréal music scene has had to reckon with sexual abuse allegations against Butler. To quote Pitchfork 's shocking investigative piece , three women alleged "sexual interactions with Butler that they came to feel were inappropriate given the gaps in age, power dynamics, and context in which they occurred." The story also alleged that Butler sexually assaulted a fourth person, who is gender-fluid, "twice in 2015, when they were 21 and he was 34."

In a response, communicated through New York-based crisis public relations expert Risa Heller, Butler acknowledged the sexual interactions, but claimed they were consensual:

"While these relationships were all consensual, I am very sorry to anyone who I have hurt with my behavior," Butler wrote. "As I look to the future, I am continuing to learn from my mistakes and working hard to become a better person, someone my son can be proud of. [...] I'm sorry I wasn't more aware and tuned in to the effect I have on people — I f***** up, and while not an excuse, I will continue to look forward and heal what can be healed, and learn from past experiences."

In November, a fifth woman came forward to allege an " ongoing abusive relationship ."

While many outlets reported the news right away and had extensive coverage in the days following , the reaction in Canada seemed delayed. This wasn't the first time someone from the Canadian music scene had been accused of sexual harassment and probably wouldn't be the last. However, this situation felt especially dire. Butler is a star who both enabled and troubled the growth of a scene that has been recognized globally for its creative talent. He represented something more than just a beloved hometown artist — he's an international star who helped earn the Montréal scene a global reputation.

Jetté's story could be the story of many other people living in Montréal. Everybody who lives in the city has a story about the band. But since the allegations came to light, Arcade Fire has become a synonym for something darker, something even the people evolving around them couldn't see coming. This time around, the question lingered: How and why did this happen?

In Québec, 'we glorify them.'

Olivier Lalande is no stranger to the Montréal music scene. Before working as an online content editor, he was a music journalist and one of the first to interview Arcade Fire before its big break.

"Around this time, in 2003, there was already a cult around them in the underground scene," Lalande says. "I was a freelance music journalist in charge of the music section of Nightlife and I used to spend time on a forum called Montréal Shows. This forum is where it all started. Every time Arcade Fire would perform, people would go nuts. I was curious."

After the release of its first album, Funeral , in 2004, the band quickly gained attention from mainstream media across the world. The following year, David Carr, one of the most prominent pop culture columnists in the United States, profiled Montréal for his New York Times column . Carr described the city as the breeding ground for a creative, out-of-the-ordinary music scene: "Being the biggest destination [for music] in a region almost guarantees an influx of musically inclined, disaffected young people to both play in and listen to bands. Bad weather helps, because it keeps songwriters inside and bands rehearsing. And perhaps most importantly, a nascent musical scene requires lots of cheap real estate for musicians and their fans to hang out and play in."

Carr's article, for the most part, existed because of Arcade Fire's newfound glory on the international scene. In the nearly two decades since, the band's released six albums total, performed on Saturday Night Live five times and toured internationally. In 2011, The Suburbs won the Polaris Music Prize as well as album of the year for both the Juno Awards and the 53rd Grammy Awards.

"When you'd walk around Montréal and saw members of Arcade Fire on the street, you would feel extremely special," Jetté says. "You know, we [Québécois and Québécoise people] have this connection with our artists. There's cultural belonging. As soon as someone who comes from our home shines abroad, we go crazy. We've done it with Céline Dion, and we've done it with Xavier Dolan. We've done it with many artists. Our Québec TV series are translated into many languages. A lot of Québec culture is found elsewhere because it is distinct from Canada. It has a color; it has a particular flavor. When we succeed globally, it makes us exponentially proud, here in Québec."

Jetté's words are echoed by Lalande, who confirms the godlike state of artists in the French-speaking province. Lalande mentions how albums are announced in the province: Instead of a sortir ("release"), artists offrir ("offering"), as if they were gifting us their talent rather than releasing their work.

"Look at any variety show in Québec," Lalande explains. "Every time there's a popular artist who's a guest, it feels like ... Christ has come back to deliver us from our sins. I know I'm exaggerating, but there's a lot of this. We glorify them."

The heavy, religious lingo is no mistake: French-Canadian Catholic history looms large in Québec, but that language has, over time, come to describe cultural products, too. This underlines a bigger issue: the systematic glorification of artists and their perceived infallible behavior through the eyes of fans, making it easier for them to be abusive toward those who love them unconditionally.

A culture of silence lets abusers run free.

Maryse Bernard, known as Maryze, a young up-and-coming artist from the Montréal scene, explains how disappointing the allegations were when she read the news: "It's disheartening, especially for people who saw Arcade Fire as a very fun-loving, positive community. Because then it's, like, 'Oh, even the good ones here have stories that come out.' So you wonder kind of like, who in the scene can you trust?"

In Montréal, artists help and mentor each other in order to export their talents outside of the city.

"Montréal was always this kind of cultural mecca of Canada," Bernard says. "I think there has been this kind of myth of Montréal, especially in the heyday of Arcade Fire, of that scene that was very artsy and free and welcoming and, you know, open to all people. A city where you could be yourself no matter how freaky your art was. It was a place to explore creativity."

To most of the people who spoke for this article, the accusations against Win Butler came as a surprise. The band was known for taking a stand on social issues, most notably by supporting initiatives in Haiti. Régine Chassagne, the band's lead singer and Butler's wife, co-founded KANPE , an organization that brings help to underserved rural communities in Haiti.

"They were very much involved in the Montréal community," adds Bernard. "They were the kind of artists that, you know, smaller artists would hang out with. And in some ways, that's great if they could offer forms of mentorship, because many young artists need help and be reassured that they don't need to jump through all these hoops to be in this industry. You can do what feels good for you. But it's when big artists [like Arcade Fire] take that [relationship] to their advantage that these things [like abuse] are happening."

Bernard says a culture of silence exists in the Canadian scene, where abused people decide to stay silent to preserve their careers. As if there is a general understanding that these things will happen in someone's career.

"It's just this weird unwritten rule that [abuse] is just gonna happen, that you'll have to deal with this if you want to get in," Bernard says. "You're going to have to deal with a certain amount of it. Some people will treat you badly, especially if you're starting out and you don't want to rock the boat."

Bernard mentions that artists have been talking more and denouncing sexual abuse in the music scene more, but there's still a level of fear that careers will be tarnished or that they won't be taken seriously. This silence lets abusers roam free in the scene without apparent consequences.

"We see them at a panel or a festival, and they're just like hanging around. I'm like, 'How many people is this making uncomfortable? How many people know that this is a bad person that we should be careful around? And that shouldn't really have access to the community anymore? And they're still just here, like nothing?' " Bernard notes.

Courageous and resilient, Bernard isn't a stranger to all of this. She herself has suffered abuse in the industry by someone she's not yet willing to name. "I'm still afraid to call out my abusers within the music industry, you know, and for what? I do feel that I'm in a position where I would be believed and that I would be taken seriously, but I'm still scared of the repercussions. I even hear myself, you know, like metering my words and calculating some responses because I don't want to, like, I don't want to put myself in an unsafe position."

'With Arcade Fire, it was like questioning something that was bigger than us.'

When the Pitchfork story was published on Saturday, Aug. 27, 2022 — coincidentally, at the start of election season in Québec — Canadian media took the weekend to report the news. La Presse , a major Québécois news source, released a short report on the allegations that evening and the CBC ran a story the next day on TV. After Pitchfork 's follow-up featuring a fifth allegation, only one major Canadian media outlet ( TVA and Journal de Montréal through QMI Press Agency, all three entities owned by Québécor, a media conglomerate) featured the story in French. With scant coverage on the allegations, consequences were practically nonexistent, which only adds to the culture of silence in the music industry.

"We saw the CBC fail to have an online-accessible story about Butler until, like, a day or two after the investigation broke," explains Toronto-based pop culture critic Jill Krajewski. "Our national broadcaster didn't run a TV story [until Sunday night], and the fact that the [ La Presse ] story broke at 9 p.m. on a Saturday evening in the Québec market makes it not accessible for everyone."

Québécois people are protective of their unique cultural exports. Lalande explains how this cultural pride has an impact on journalism, mostly on reporting cultural affairs.

"A culture journalist, reporter or columnist cannot bring up a public figure's dark side in just any circumstance," says Lalande. "First, most media wouldn't even consider that to be their job. Second, fact-checking takes a certain editorial structure that I don't think most outlets have. It's hard news, it is the job of an investigative journalist, not an arts one. It is not seen as their role."

While this statement brings up the difficulty of reporting on allegations of abuse in the music industry, it also shows the lack of weight these stories pull in major media. But for Élise Jetté, the reason for the lack of coverage might have stemmed from something else — a sort of mourning process.

"Yes, it took time for everyone to react," Jetté says. "We all needed to absorb the shocking news. As much for the real fans as the local media. We had to take a minute, sit down and digest it to be able to comment on it."

Jetté remembers another moment in Québec's music history: the #MeToo allegations of summer 2020. A prominent Québécois label, Dare to Care Records, was thrown into disarray after sexual abuse allegations against one of its artists, Bernard Adamus, were brought to light. The head of the label, Eli Bissonnette, resigned after being accused of protecting Adamus for the past 10 years, knowing that the artist had behaved in problematic ways toward his fans. But they weren't the only ones. More than a dozen people from the music industry were outed, including David Desrosiers, who left Simple Plan as a result.

While public response to these allegations was swift, those against Butler raised an existential question.

"With Arcade Fire, it was like questioning something that was bigger than us," Jetté, who writes for several Montréal-based outlets, says. "It was as if you were asking everyone to kill their darlings. We started questioning: How did this happen? Why did we not see anything? It makes me question my professional roots and my personal attachment to music."

When news broke, the young journalist took a step back to evaluate what was happening and how she felt about the story. She mentions always believing victims, whether they seem trustworthy or not; believing them and offering them support, rather than questioning them. Her feminist beliefs are greater than her love for Arcade Fire. As much as she loved the music, she came to a painful realization.

"Finally, I decided that Arcade Fire wasn't worthy of my admiration anymore."

The only way to change the industry is through education and safe spaces.

"What upset me so much is when I read the article, I was like 'Oh, [Win Butler] used the Pop vs. Jocks event to prey on this young woman who was barely 18 or whatever. You know, that was kind of f***** up!"

Daniel Seligman's voice is thick with anger and disappointment. The Creative Director of POP Montréal, a massive annual not-for-profit cultural event that showcases emerging and independent talent from Montréal and across the world, felt betrayed. Not only was 2016 the last year of POP Montréal working with Arcade Fire for Pop vs. Jocks, a friendly charity basketball game between indie artists from major bands, but the whole experience left a bad taste in his mouth. According to the Pitchfork investigation, Stella (a pseudonym), one of Butler's alleged victims, was contacted by the singer after taking pictures at the event.

"[Butler] had a pattern," says Seligman. "He took advantage of them and the festival! For me, that was s*****, because we were trying to raise money for a local charity. That was actually the last time we worked with the band. That whole experience was actually kind of hard. We were working really hard and we kind of felt slightly taken advantage of. He wasn't very nice to work with; he was slightly abusive. And then after reading that article, I was taken aback."

For Seligman, the only way to change the industry is through education and creating safe spaces in which people will not be subjected to inappropriate behaviors.

"I think it's important just to have an outward display of policies that are slightly symbolic. It shows the people participating [in your events] that the organization is trying to do something that keeps us safer. I think that it is important to have your policies up on your website, making sure you are listening to people, fans and other artists who have issues."

Jill Krajewski and Maryse Bernard also mention that whisper networks — that is, networks of people sharing information about sexual abusers — have emerged across the country. Olivier Lalande remembers a much different climate in the aughts. Rumors of questionable behavior were common, but didn't raise eyebrows. Some artists were even upfront about it.

"Without being aware of the abuse," Lalande says, "I remember being at parties, hearing artists making nasty jokes about the girls they slept with on tour, while they were actually in relationships with people I knew. [...] You'd want to question their behavior, but the answer was always the same: 'He is an artist. We can't really understand what he is going through...' I noticed this a lot."

But for Bernard, another aspect of the Pitchfork article that got her attention was the young age of the victims. Something she can relate to from her own experience in her late teens and early 20s with older people in the Canadian scene.

"A lot of these experiences happen to younger people who haven't had enough life experiences," says Bernard. "It's not like they don't know that certain things aren't okay, but they haven't learned, yet, some behaviors are actually bad and need to be called out. If people are telling you this is just how it is, you're more inclined to believe them. When you're younger, it's easier to take advantage of younger, bright-eyed artists [or fans]."

But even as members of the industry want change, an invisible force remains.

Stories of abuse in the music industry prompted Sarah Armiento to start Hot Tramp Records, a women-only label, in response to the inappropriate behavior she experienced in the music industry.

"When I was in Toronto, I got unsolicited pictures from men, people I worked with, and other types of experiences," says Armiento. "This is what made me want to start a company like Hot Tramp. When I read things like this happening, it makes me remember why I started my label."

Armiento completely understands why women would want to work exclusively with other women in the music industry, who can understand and support each other. She tries to make them feel safe within her label and their work. And she isn't the only one. After Dare to Care's turmoil, Béatrice Martin (aka Cœur de pirate), one of the label's major successes, purchased and renamed the label Bravo Musique, vowing to change things in the industry. In an interview for Exclaim.ca , she said, "A lot of stuff was swept under the rug or nobody did anything about it. I want people to come to me and say, 'This is happening,' and I want to be able to do something about it. It's about respect and decency. Our work extends everywhere: It extends to how we behave like artists and elsewhere. It wasn't clear to everyone where work started and ended, and now it's clearer. So that's good. Boundaries are important."

But, even as members of the industry want to move forward and change, it seems like an invisible force keeps on bringing controversies of its own. Arcade Fire continued its North American tour, though Feist and Beck dropped off as openers . On Sept. 19, 2022 — just three weeks after the first wave of accusations against Butler — Montréal artist Pierre Kwenders, ended his acceptance speech for the Polaris Music Prize by thanking Butler and Arcade Fire for their contribution to his album. Although one radio host at Radio-Canada asked Kwenders about the speech and some other actors in the industry mentioned the incident in tweets, the moment went practically unnoticed.

"That already tells you the problem with Canada's music industry having a culture of silence," Jill Krajewski says. "People made a deliberate choice not to call it out. [...] Why did [Pierre Kwenders] bring up someone accused of sexual assault in a widespread investigation? Were they genuinely thankful for their contribution to their album? That's one thing. But the information [about Arcade Fire and Win Butler] has changed. And it wasn't appropriate to be praising someone accused of sexual assault, certainly not on the platform of Polaris being streamed live on CBC Music, a public-funded media. That was very distasteful."

"If this happened three weeks after the allegations, how can the Canadian fans expect the scene to go forward and change?" Élise Jetté adds. She wonders if artists aren't able to learn from the mistakes of others because they feel protected by the industry. "They aren't afraid of losing their career. I'm vigilant about what is happening in the industry. But they have to get scared of losing something! We need to scare them. They need to be scared of getting caught."

However, acclaim has continued unabated. WE , Arcade Fire's most recent album, was nominated for best alternative music album by the Grammys. The band finished the North American leg of its tour in Montréal to a sold-out crowd. On Jan. 31, the Juno Awards, presented by the Canadian Academy of Recording Arts and Sciences, announced Arcade Fire's nomination for group of the year. When the CBC asked for comment about the nomination, CARAS responded: "We look at Arcade Fire's nomination for group of the year as one for the entire band. While we take the allegations very seriously, in this situation, we are also honoring the rest of the band for their success. We hope the allegations against Butler will not detract from the achievements of the other group members."

As awards mount and repercussions do not, Montréal and the Canadian music scene at large are left with one question: Without any real consequences, will these situations keep recurring?

"It's a question I keep asking myself," ends Olivier Lalande.

Yara El-Soueidi is a millennial writer, culture journalist and columnist based in Montréal, Canada, where she covers the local cultural scene for Canadian and American media.

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• Arcade Fire

‘Business as usual’: Back in concert, Arcade Fire sidesteps allegations against Butler

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Days after four people accused Arcade Fire frontman Win Butler of sexual misconduct and assault , the band kicked off its European tour seemingly without a hitch in Ireland.

“If anyone was wondering, it’s business as usual for Arcade Fire,” tweeted podcast host Jason Carty, who attended the group’s Tuesday show at Dublin’s 3Arena. .

Carty posted video of the band performing its anthemic hit “The Suburbs,” the titular song from its Grammy-winning 2010 album. While Butler led the chorus, a crowded arena of fans clapped and sang along.

Another Twitter user tweeted that “Arcade Fire came out to rapturous applause” when opening its set with “Wake Up.” Journalist Christine Bohan, who was also in attendance, noted that the “ crowd immediately seems to be on their side.”

Arcade Fire frontman Win Butler accused of sexual misconduct

Four women have raised sexual misconduct allegations against Win Butler, according to a report. The Arcade Fire frontman contends that the encounters were ‘consensual.’

Aug. 27, 2022

Others, however, noticed that Butler did not directly make a statement about the allegations against him. A Reddit user said Butler “opened by thanking ‘everyone from the bottom of his heart’ for coming out.”

“It felt like a half a— acknowledgement of events and then it was sort of business as usual,” the post read .

According to a Saturday report from Pitchfork , three women alleged that Butler’s misconduct occurred between 2016 and 2020 when they were between the ages of 18 and 23 and Butler was between 36 and 39. A fourth accuser, who identifies as gender-fluid, alleged that Butler sexually assaulted them twice in 2015 when they were 21.

Butler, who has been married to bandmate Régine Chassagne since 2003, denied the allegations and said he had “consensual relationships outside of my marriage.”

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Chassagne also issued a statement supporting her husband, writing in part: “I know what is in his heart, and I know he has never, and would never, touch a woman without her consent and I am certain he never did.”

Fans weren’t the only ones with Butler’s allegations in mind at Tuesday’s concert. Feist, the Canadian singer-songwriter who opened the show, will donate all proceeds from her merchandise sales to Women’s Aid Dublin , according to photos from the merch stand. Women’s Aid Dublin is an organization that works to stop domestic abuse in Ireland.

While it seems to be the “1234” hitmaker’s first time donating to Women’s Aid Dublin, Feist has previously championed organizations that support women and children who have been abused.

Times staff writers Stacy Perman and August Brown contributed to this report.

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Arcade Fire's Win Butler accused of sexual misconduct by 4 people, band still embarks on tour

Corrections & clarifications: A previous version of this report mischaracterized the allegations against Win Butler of Arcade Fire. The musician is accused of sexual assault by one person and sexual misconduct by three others.  

Arcade Fire frontman Win Butler has been accused of sexual assault by one person and sexual misconduct by three others – all of which he claims were "consensual" encounters.

Three women and one person, who identifies as gender-fluid and uses they/them pronouns, claimed in an interview with Pitchfork shared Saturday that Butler, 42, made unwanted advances   and used his status as a musician to pressure them into sexual situations. 

The accusers were ages 18 to 23 when sexual advances from the musician allegedly occurred between 2016 and 2020, they told the outlet. Butler was 36 at the start of the allegations.

Representatives for Butler  told USA TODAY Saturday evening that they had no additional comment beyond the statement Butler gave Pitchfork.

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What is Arcade Fire's Win Butler accused of? 

In interviews with the alleged victims, most shared how their interactions with Butler began because they were fans and gradually progressed to their boundaries being ignored.

"To me he was just another creepy old guy, and to her it was her hero," a friend of one of the accusers told Pitchfork, describing a night when they were out with Butler.

Another person, dubbed Sarah, described being pushed to have video sex with the musician.

"I did everything because it was him," Sarah said. "I remember being so nervous and so ashamed that I did it. He used me, basically, as his personal therapist, and easy way to get sex over the phone."

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One alleged victim with the pseudonym Fiona said she attempted suicide after having sex with Butler after a concert in Vancouver in 2017.

"The toll of having to keep everything secret, constantly pushing my needs aside in order to appease him, lack of boundaries, and the guilt of being the other woman was getting too hard to ignore," Fiona said.

Butler, who is married to Arcade Fire's Régine Chassagne, countered every story told by the accusers in statements to Pitchfork.

How has Butler responded?

The musician claimed he discussed the encounter with Fiona and they grew a friendship.

"We immediately talked on the phone and although she indicated her depression was not related to me, I left that conversation committed to never sleeping with someone again that I fundamentally knew so little about. It really shook me," he said. "Although she repeated it was unrelated to me, she was suffering from mental illness, to which I am very sympathetic."

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The musician told Pitchfork he "had consensual relationships outside of my marriage," but denied any of the instances were sexual assault.

"I vehemently deny any suggestion that I forced myself on a woman or demanded sexual favors. That simply, and unequivocally, never happened," Butler said.

Butler said that he's struggled with alcoholism, mental health issues and "the ghosts of childhood abuse." 

"None of this is intended to excuse my behavior, but I do want to give some context and share what was happening in my life around this time," Butler said, adding that he's "put significant time and energy into therapy and healing, including attending AA."

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"I am more aware now of how my public persona can distort relationships even if a situation feels friendly and positive to me," the Arcade Fire frontman said.

Despite the infidelity, Butler's wife Chassagne said her husband is her "soulmate."

"I have stood by him because I know he is a good man who cares about this world, our band, his fans, friends, and our family," she said. "I know what is in his heart, and I know he has never, and would never, touch a woman without her consent and I am certain he never did."

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Is Arcade Fire still going on tour? 

The band opened the first night of its WE tour Tuesday night in Dublin, just days after the Pitchfork interview was published. 

Some fans have been calling on the band to cancel the tour in light of the allegations against Butler. 

"No way should arcade fire continue with their world tour on tuesday. it’s a wrap. cancel it already," writer Jill Krajewski wrote on Twitter. 

Arcade Fire is scheduled to tour throughout Europe in September. The band's first U.S. show is scheduled for Oct. 27 in Washington, D.C. 

Beck Drops Off Arcade Fire’s Tour Amid Win Butler Sexual Misconduct Allegations

By Daniel Kreps

Daniel Kreps

Beck has dropped off the Arcade Fire ’s upcoming North American tour, where the singer was to serve as opening act, amid accusations of sexual misconduct against the band’s frontman Win Butler .

Ticket buyers were informed of the change via email Friday, “Beck is unfortunately no longer able to join Arcade Fire on their upcoming North American tour.” Taking his place will be Boukman Eksperyans,” the Haitian band that recently opened for Arcade Fire on their European leg. 

No explanation for Beck’s exit was provided, and reps for both Arcade Fire and Beck did not comment to Rolling Stone . As of Saturday morning, the shows – slated to begin Oct. 27 in Washington, D.C. – were removed from tour section of Beck’s website.

After opening the first two shows of that tour, Feist explained her decision to depart in a lengthy statement on social media, revealing that she first learned about the accusations against Butler after she and her band had already traveled to Europe for the tour. Despite the allegations, Feist opened the tour’s first gig in Dublin but donated proceeds from merch sales to a local women’s aid organization.

“This has ignited a conversation that is bigger than me, it’s bigger than my songs and it’s certainly bigger than any rock and roll tour,” Feist wrote. “To stay on tour would symbolize I was either defending or ignoring the harm caused by Win Butler and to leave would imply I was the judge and jury.”

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In August, multiple women came forward in a  Pitchfork  report that detailed Butler’s alleged sexual misconduct, the accusations of which ranged from sexual assault to unsolicited sexting. While Butler admitted to the extramarital affairs, he responded that they were all “consensual.” “I vehemently deny any suggestion that I forced myself on a woman or demanded sexual favors. That simply, and unequivocally, never happened,” Butler wrote.

Butler’s wife and bandmate Regine Chassagne said in a separate statement, “Win is my soulmate, my songwriting partner, my husband, the father of my beautiful boy. He has been my partner in life and in music for 20 years. And for all of the love in our lives, I have also watched him suffer through immense pain… I know what is in his heart, and I know he has never, and would never, touch a woman without her consent and I am certain he never did. He has lost his way and he has found his way back.”

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Feist leaves Arcade Fire tour after Win Butler sex abuse allegations

Canadian singer-songwriter Leslie Feist says she is leaving an international tour with Arcade Fire after several people accused the band’s frontman, Win Butler, of sexual misconduct.

The allegations, which Butler denies, surfaced in a lengthy investigation by Pitchfork that was published shortly before the start of Arcade Fire’s tour with Feist through Europe and North America. Feist played two dates with the band before deciding to drop out.

“I’ve always written songs to name my own subtle difficulties, aspire to my best self and claim responsibility when I need to,” Feist said in a tweet Thursday. “And I’m claiming my responsibility now and going home.”

Pitchfork’s story detailed the experiences of four young Arcade Fire fans who said Butler took advantage of their gaps in age and power dynamics in a series of unwanted sexual interactions between 2015 and 2020.

Three women said Butler sent them unwanted, sexually explicit messages when he was in his late-30s and they were between 18 and 23. A fourth person who is gender-fluid said Butler sexually assaulted them twice in 2015, when they were 21 and he was 34.

Pitchfork reported that the fans’ accounts were backed up by screenshots of messages and interviews with friends and family.

Butler, now 42, acknowledged having sexual interactions with the four people but said they were consensual. “It is deeply revisionist, and frankly just wrong, for anyone to suggest otherwise,” he told Pitchfork.

Feist said she learned of the allegations after rehearsing with her band for a pair of shows in Dublin. It presented her with a moral dilemma, she said.

“We didn’t have any time to prepare for what was coming let alone a chance to decide not to fly across the ocean into the belly of this situation,” she wrote.

“To stay on tour would symbolize I was either defending or ignoring the harm caused by Win Butler,” she said, “and to leave would imply I was the judge and jury.”

At the first two shows opening for Arcade Fire, Feist donated all merchandise proceeds to Women’s Aid Dublin, an advocacy group that helps domestic violence victims in Ireland.

She decided to quit altogether, she said, after hearing from people close to her who voiced “sympathy for the dichotomy I have been pushed into.”

“This has ignited a conversation that is bigger than me, it’s bigger than my songs and it’s certainly bigger than any rock and roll tour,” Feist wrote.

She added: “It can be a lonely road to make sense of ill treatment. I can’t solve that by quitting, and I can’t solve it by staying. But I can’t continue.”

An Arcade Fire representative could not immediately be reached for comment Friday. In a statement to Pitchfork, the band said it was “sorry to see Leslie go home, but completely understand and respect her decision.”

Arcade Fire’s social media accounts have been silent since Pitchfork first reported the sexual misconduct allegations. The band has won multiple Grammys and its records have been certified gold. Butler’s wife, Régine Chassagne, is a member of the band.

Several radio stations in North America, including Canada’s largest public broadcaster, have pulled the Canadian band’s discography from their rotations in the past week in response to the allegations. Some fans have urged others to boycott the tour and have called on the live entertainment behemoth Ticketmaster to issue refunds for concert tickets.

Feist quits Arcade Fire tour after sexual misconduct allegations surface against Win Butler

'more than anything i wish healing to those involved,' says musician, who was opening act.

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WARNING: This article contains content about sexual assault and may affect those who have experienced​ ​​​sexual violence or know someone affected by it.

Polaris-winning musician Leslie Feist, who was performing as opening act for the band Arcade Fire in Dublin, has quit the tour.

The musician made the announcement in an Instagram post on Wednesday, citing allegations of sexual misconduct against Arcade Fire frontman Win Butler as the reason for her departure. 

The allegations first gained public attention from news publication Pitchfork, which stated that four people have made allegations against Butler. CBC News was unable to independently verify these allegations. They have not been proven in court.

In two statements to Pitchfork, Butler denied all allegations, saying that sexual interactions he had with the four people were consensual, but apologized "to anyone who I have hurt with my behaviour."

In her post, Feist says she and her band were blindsided by the Pitchfork story, though did not have time to decide on whether to cancel their participation in the upcoming tour, mere days later.

The decision to leave now came from a desire to "distance [herself] from this tour, not this conversation," while she still argued against "public shaming." 

"To stay on tour would symbolize I was either defending or ignoring the harm caused by Win Butler and to leave would imply I was the judge and jury," Feist wrote in her post. 

"It can be a lonely road to make sense of ill treatment. I can't solve that by quitting, and I can't solve it by staying. But I can't continue."

Arcade Fire later issued a statement on Feist's departure, saying they "are very sorry to see Leslie go home, but completely understand and respect her decision."

Radio stations pull Arcade Fire music 

A number of radio stations have pulled the band's discography from their lineups, including CBC Music and Toronto's Indie88.

Elsewhere, some fans have called on Arcade Fire to cancel their ongoing UK and Ireland tour following the allegations, though it has so far gone ahead as planned.

Their first show in Dublin on Aug. 30 saw the band debut to "rapturous applause" according to the Los Angeles Times .  The Guardian reported Feist made no comment on the allegations then, but displayed a poster declaring proceeds for her merchandise would go to the Irish charity Women's Aid, which helps victims of domestic abuse.

• Radio stations pull Arcade Fire music following sexual misconduct allegations against frontman
• Calls for Arcade Fire show refunds after frontman accused of sexual misconduct

American musician Beck, who is scheduled to front the band on their North American tour starting in September, is still scheduled to appear. 

Meanwhile, Butler's wife and fellow Arcade Fire member Régine Chassagne also put out a statement in defence of Butler. 

"I know what is in his heart, and I know he has never, and would never, touch a woman without her consent and I am certain he never did," Chassagne said in the statement. "He has lost his way and he has found his way back. I love him and love the life we have created together."

Support is available for anyone who has been sexually assaulted. You can access crisis lines and local support services through this Government of Canada website or the Ending Violence Association of Canada database . ​​If you're in immediate danger or fear for your safety or that of others around you, please call 911. 

An earlier version of this story contained a photo of a woman who was inaccurately identified as Leslie Feist. It was actually musician Ariel Engle.

Corrections

• An earlier version of this story contained a photo of a woman who was inaccurately identified as Leslie Feist. It was actually musician Ariel Engle. Sep 01, 2022 5:45 PM ET

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Jackson Weaver is a senior writer for CBC Entertainment News. You can reach him at [email protected], or follow him on Twitter at @jacksonwweaver

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Feist leaves Arcade Fire tour after sexual misconduct claims against frontman

Canadian singer-songwriter announces she will step back from a tour with Arcade Fire following allegations against Win Butler

The Canadian singer-songwriter Leslie Feist, known mononymously as Feist, has announced she will leave a tour with Arcade Fire following allegations of sexual misconduct against the band’s frontman, Win Butler.

A Pitchfork investigation published last week alleged that the 42-year-old singer-guitarist of the Canadian indie rock band took advantage of age gaps and fandom with four people; three women, aged 18 to 23 at the time, alleged Butler sent unwanted sexual messages between the years 2015 and 2020.

A fourth, gender-fluid, person alleged that Butler sexually assaulted them twice in 2015, when they were 21 and he was 34. Pitchfork viewed screenshots of text and Instagram messages between Butler and the four pseudonymous subjects, and interviewed friends and family members who recalled being told of the alleged incidents.

Butler denied the claims and said the relationships were consensual, adding in a statement: “It is deeply revisionist, and frankly just wrong, for anyone to suggest otherwise.”

“At a pub in Dublin, after rehearsing with my band, I read the same headline you did,” Feist wrote in a lengthy statement posted to her social media accounts. “We didn’t have any time to prepare for what was coming let alone a chance to decide not to fly across the ocean into the belly of this situation.”

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“This has been incredibly difficult for me and I can only imagine how much more difficult it’s been for the people who came forward. More than anything I wish healing to those involved.”

She added that the Pitchfork article “ignited a conversation that is bigger than me, it’s bigger than my songs and it’s certainly bigger than any rock and roll tour … To stay on tour would symbolize I was either defending or ignoring the harm caused by Win Butler and to leave would imply I was the judge and jury.”

The 46-year-old singer said she “was never here to stand for or with Arcade Fire – I was here to stand on my own two feet on a stage, a place I’ve grown to feel I belong and I’ve earned as my own.

“There isn’t a singular path to heal when you’ve endured any version of the above, nor a singular path to rehabilitate the perpetrators,” she said. “It can be a lonely road to make sense of ill treatment. I can’t solve that by quitting, and I can’t solve it by staying. But I can’t continue.”

Following the allegations, radio stations in Canada and the US started pulling the band’s songs from playlists. Commentators on social media urged fans to boycott forthcoming concerts in Britain, France, Germany, Spain, Italy and elsewhere, with many surprised the tour was going ahead at all. Asked for comment by a Guardian reporter at the band’s concert in Dublin this week , a publicist for Arcade Fire said only that the band would continue its tour to promote their new album, We .

In her statement, Feist distanced herself from public shaming, which “might cause action, but those actions are made from fear, and fear is not the place we find our best selves or make our best decisions. Fear doesn’t precipitate empathy nor healing nor open a safe space for these kinds of conversations to evolve, or for real accountability and remorse to be offered to the people who were harmed.”

In a statement to Pitchfork, Butler, who is married to bandmate Régine Chassagne, acknowledged having had sexual interactions with each of the four people, but said they were not initiated by him and were consensual.

In a further statement, he apologised “to anyone who I have hurt with my behaviour”, adding: “I am continuing to learn from my mistakes and working hard to become a better person, someone my son can be proud of [...] I’m sorry I wasn’t more aware and tuned in to the effect I have on people – I fucked up, and while not an excuse, I will continue to look forward and heal what can be healed, and learn from past experiences.”

Noting that she’s “imperfect” and will “navigate this decision imperfectly”, Feist concluded that “the best way to take care of my band and crew and my family is to distance myself from this tour, not this conversation. The last two nights on stage, my songs made this decision for me. Hearing them through this lens was incongruous with what I’ve worked to clarify for myself through my whole career.

“I’ve always written songs to name my own subtle difficulties, aspire to my best self and claim responsibility when I need to. And I’m claiming my responsibility now and going home.”

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Feist Leaves Arcade Fire Tour, Citing Win Butler Allegations

By Evan Minsker

Feist has announced that she will no longer open Arcade Fire ’s current tour, citing recent allegations of sexual misconduct against frontman Win Butler . (Butler has maintained that all of the alleged interactions were consensual.) She opened for the band’s first two concerts in Dublin, which took place August 30 and 31 at 3Arena. During those shows, all proceeds from Feist’s merchandise sales at the band’s were donated to Women’s Aid Dublin , an organization dedicated to stopping domestic violence across Ireland. She was scheduled to tour with Arcade Fire through the rest of September in Europe. Read Feist’s full statement below.

“We are very sorry to see Leslie go home, but completely understand and respect her decision,” Arcade Fire responded in a statement.

At a pub in Dublin, after rehearsing with my band, I read the same headline you did. We didn’t have any time to prepare for what was coming let alone a chance to decide not to fly across the ocean into the belly of this situation. This has been incredibly difficult for me and I can only imagine how much more difficult it’s been for the people who came forward. More than anything I wish healing to those involved.

This has ignited a conversation that is bigger than me, it’s bigger than my songs and it’s certainly bigger than any rock and roll tour. As I tried to get my bearings and figure out my responsibility in this situation, I received dozens of messages from the people around me, expressing sympathy for the dichotomy I have been pushed into. To stay on tour would symbolize I was either defending or ignoring the harm caused by Win Butler and to leave would imply I was the judge and jury.

I was never here to stand for or with Arcade Fire—I was here to stand on my own two feet on a stage, a place I’ve grown to feel I belong and I’ve earned as my own. I play for my band, my crew, their loved ones and all of our families, and the people who pay their hard-earned money to share space in the collective synergy that is a show. The ebb and flow of my successes, failures, and other decisions affect all of our livelihoods and I recognize how lucky I am to be able to travel the world singing songs about my life, my thoughts and experiences and have that be my career. I’ve never taken that for granted.

My experiences include the same experiences as the many people I have spoken to since the news broke on Saturday, and the many strangers whom I may only be able to reach with this letter, or not at all. We all have a story within a spectrum ranging from baseline toxic masculinity to pervasive misogyny to actually being physically, psychologically, emotionally or sexually assaulted. This situation touches each of our lives and speaks to us in a language unique to each of our processing. There isn’t a singular path to heal when you’ve endured any version of the above, nor a singular path to rehabilitate the perpetrators. It can be a lonely road to make sense of ill treatment. I can’t solve that by quitting, and I can’t solve it by staying. But I can’t continue.

Public shaming might cause action, but those actions are made from fear, and fear is not the place we find our best selves or make our best decisions. Fear doesn’t precipitate empathy nor healing nor open a safe space for these kinds of conversations to evolve, or for real accountability and remorse to be offered to the people who were harmed.

I’m imperfect and I will navigate this decision imperfectly, but what I’m sure of is the best way to take care of my band and crew and my family is to distance myself from this tour, not this conversation. The last two nights on stage, my songs made this decision for me. Hearing them through this lens was incongruous with what I’ve worked to clarify for myself through my whole career. I’ve always written songs to name my own subtle difficulties, aspire to my best self and claim responsibility when I need to. And I’m claiming my responsibility now and going home.

This article was originally published on Thursday, September 1 at 1:05 p.m. Eastern. It was last updated on Monday, September 12 at 2:07 p.m. Eastern.

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Arcade Fire UK tour: Fans urge band to cancel shows following sexual misconduct allegations as support act drops out

Win Butler, Arcade Fire's frontman, has admitted to relationships outside his marriage to bandmate Régine Chassagne, but says all were consensual and denies misconduct. The claims were made ahead of a tour, which takes in Birmingham, Manchester, Glasgow and London in the UK.

Culture and entertainment reporter @gemmapeplow

Friday 2 September 2022 10:26, UK

Arcade Fire are facing growing calls from fans to cancel shows or refund tickets for their upcoming UK tour dates following allegations of sexual misconduct against frontman Win Butler.

The claims by three women and one gender-fluid person were published in an investigation by US music site Pitchfork at the weekend. The four were aged between 18 and 23 at the time of the alleged inappropriate behaviour between 2016 and 2020 - while Butler was in his late 30s, the article reported.

Butler, who has been married to his Arcade Fire bandmate Régine Chassagne since 2003, has said the interactions were consensual and vehemently denied misconduct, but said he was "very sorry to anyone who I have hurt with my behaviour".

Support act Feist has withdrawn from the tour in the wake of the allegations.

Chassagne has supported her husband, saying in a statement: "I know he has never, and would never, touch a woman without her consent and I am certain he never did. He has lost his way and he has found his way back."

Following the allegations, some fans of the indie rock band say they are no longer comfortable attending Arcade Fire shows or listening to their music. Some are trying to resell tickets or have asked for refunds from sales sites, and some say it is the band's responsibility to step in and make this happen.

Arcade Fire have played shows in Dublin this week and are due to start a handful of UK dates tonight, ahead of gigs across Europe, the US and Canada.

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After playing in Dublin, Feist announced her departure from the tour on Thursday, saying in a lengthy statement explaining her decision that "the best way to take care of my band and crew and my family is to distance myself from this tour, not this conversation".

Fan Daisy Collier, a 30-year-old from Gloucestershire, says Arcade Fire have been her favourite band since she was 15, but her "heart sank" when she read about the allegations. She has tickets for tonight's Birmingham show.

"Having been a fan of the band for that long, it's sort of grief that accompanies the feeling of [reading this] about someone you've listened to and admired and, you know, really felt those lyrics for years," she told Sky News.

"It changes the dynamic of my relationship with their music and with the band. Lots of people on social media have said, 'you have to separate the person from the music'. But he's still the one singing it. So for me to go to that concert, I can't in good conscience stand there and enjoy myself."

Mrs Collier paid for insurance for her tickets, which she says cost about £94 each in total, but was told her reasons for no longer being able to go to the gig did not meet the criteria for a payout.

She then contacted Ticketmaster, who told her they could only offer a refund in the event of a cancellation.

'I don't think they should continue the tour'

Whatever happens, Mrs Collier says she will not go to the show: "For me personally, it's not something I want to engage in anymore.

"I don't think they should continue the tour. I think it's insulting to the [alleged] victims to continue to go on a massive European tour.

"As far as Ticketmaster goes, I understand you can't expect a refund for every little thing. But there should be some sort of policy for unprecedented situations like this. It's an understandable situation where you would not want to attend a concert that's being held by someone accused of sexual misconduct."

Mrs Collier is not the only fan, or former fan, who no longer wants to go to upcoming shows.

Another Birmingham ticketholder, who did not want to be named, also told Sky News he would not attend.

"I've been a fan of Arcade Fire ever since the release of [debut album] Funeral in 2004, to this day it's still one of my favourite albums," he said. "Their music has got me through some really tough times and I was looking forward to seeing them for what is now the fifth time.

"I saw the damning article from Pitchfork with the separate accounts from the women who have made accusations towards him... I can't in good conscience go and see them and just dance and sing and put to one side these accusations."

Fans contact Ticketmaster and attempt to resell tickets

In a tweet to Ticketmaster, one ticketholder urged them to "do the decent thing" and offer refunds.

"Cancel the tour and refund fans," another wrote - later saying he had tried to sell his two tickets for the Birmingham show for half price but "can't even give them away".

Another Twitter user said "it no longer seems the right thing" to see the band in Manchester on Saturday.

"The arrogance of him continuing the tour says it all," another said.

However, some fans have said the allegations do not change how they feel about the band.

"I won't stop loving my band," one said on Twitter, adding that Butler was "innocent until proven guilty". Another who went to the band's Dublin show posted: "A brilliant show, by a brilliant band. That's all which is relevant."

The allegations have also led to some radio stations in Canada, the band's home country, to stop playing their music.

Win Butler's full statement

Butler released a lengthy statement to Pitchfork in response to the allegations. His representatives pointed Sky News to this when asked for comment.

"I love Régine with all of my heart," Butler said. "We have been together for 20 years, she is my partner in music and in life, my soulmate and I am lucky and grateful to have her by my side. But at times, it has been difficult to balance being the father, husband, and bandmate that I want to be. Today I want to clear the air about my life, poor judgment, and mistakes I have made.

"I have had consensual relationships outside of my marriage.

"There is no easy way to say this, and the hardest thing I have ever done is having to share this with my son. The majority of these relationships were short lived, and my wife is aware - our marriage has, in the past, been more unconventional than some. I have connected with people in person, at shows, and through social media, and I have shared messages of which I am not proud. Most importantly, every single one of these interactions has been mutual and always between consenting adults. It is deeply revisionist, and frankly just wrong, for anyone to suggest otherwise.

"I have never touched a woman against her will, and any implication that I have is simply false. I vehemently deny any suggestion that I forced myself on a woman or demanded sexual favours. That simply, and unequivocally, never happened.

"While these relationships were all consensual, I am very sorry to anyone who I have hurt with my behaviour. Life is filled with tremendous pain and error, and I never want to be part of causing someone else's pain.

"I have long struggled with mental health issues and the ghosts of childhood abuse. In my 30s, I started drinking as I dealt with the heaviest depression of my life after our family experienced a miscarriage. None of this is intended to excuse my behaviour, but I do want to give some context and share what was happening in my life around this time. I no longer recognised myself or the person I had become. Régine waited patiently watching me suffer and tried to help me as best as she could. I know it must have been so hard for her to watch the person she loved so lost.

"I have been working hard on myself - not out of fear or shame, but because I am a human being who wants to improve despite my flaws and damage. I've spent the last few years since COVID hit trying to save that part of my soul. I have put significant time and energy into therapy and healing, including attending AA. I am more aware now of how my public persona can distort relationships even if a situation feels friendly and positive to me. I am very grateful to Régine, my family, my dear friends, and my therapist, who have helped me back from the abyss that I felt certain at times would consume me. The bond I share with my bandmates and the incredibly deep connection I've made with an audience through sharing music has literally saved my life.

"As I look to the future, I am continuing to learn from my mistakes and working hard to become a better person, someone my son can be proud of. I say to you all my friends, family, to anyone I have hurt and to the people who love my music and are shocked and disappointed by this report: I'm sorry. I'm sorry for the pain I caused - I'm sorry I wasn't more aware and tuned in to the effect I have on people - I f***** up, and while not an excuse, I will continue to look forward and heal what can be healed, and learn from past experiences. I can do better and I will do better."

Representatives for Arcade Fire did not respond to Sky News' request for additional comment on the issue of some fans calling for refunds or for the shows to be cancelled.

Sky News has also contacted Ticketmaster for comment.

Related Topics

Arcade Fire fans flogging cut-price gig tickets amid sexual misconduct allegations against lead singer

Tickets to see Arcade Fire are being offered online for a fraction of their face value amid a storm over sexual misconduct allegations against lead singer Win Butler.

The Canadian band are playing Manchester’s AO Arena on Saturday with tickets for the gig originally costing more than £58.

But on Friday afternoon seats for the same concert were available for as little as £23 on secondary ticketing sites like Viagogo.

Meanwhile tickets for the band’s London O2 next Thursday were going for 26% less than face value on Twickets.

Arcade Fire is facing pressure from fans to cancel gigs or refund tickets for their upcoming UK tour dates

The accusations, which have been made by three women and one gender-fluid person and published in an article by US music site Pitchfork last weekend, has led to a swift backlash. Butler has denied the allegations.

Fans say they will boycott Arcade Fire shows and will no longer listen to their music.

Some have also taken to social media to encourage the band to take up the responsibility of reimbursing the tickets and cancelling the show.

Those who have contacted Ticketmaster have been told they would only be offered a refund in the event of a cancellation.

In a tweet to Ticketmaster, one ticketholder urged them to "do the decent thing" and offer refunds.

"Cancel the tour and refund fans," another wrote, before admitting that he had tried to sell his two tickets for half price but "can't even give them away".

Another Twitter user said "it no longer seems the right thing" to see the band in Manchester on Saturday.

The indie band's support act Feist has also pulled out of the tour.

After playing in Dublin, musician Feist announced her departure from the tour on Thursday .

She said that "the best way to take care of my band and crew and my family is to distance myself from this tour, not this conversation".

Butler's accusers were aged between 18 and 23 and he was in his late 30s at the time of the alleged inappropriate behaviour, which was said to have taken place between 2016 and 2020.

Butler, 42, who has been married to his Arcade Fire bandmate Régine Chassagne since 2003, has said the interactions were consensual and denies misconduct.

In a lengthy statement to Pitchfork he said: "I love Régine with all of my heart. We have been together for 20 years, she is my partner in music and in life, my soulmate and I am lucky and grateful to have her by my side...

“Today I want to clear the air about my life, poor judgment, and mistakes I have made.

“I have had consensual relationships outside of my marriage.

"There is no easy way to say this, and the hardest thing I have ever done is having to share this with my son.

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“The majority of these relationships were short lived, and my wife is aware - our marriage has, in the past, been more unconventional than some... every single one of these interactions has been mutual and always between consenting adults.

“It is deeply revisionist, and frankly just wrong, for anyone to suggest otherwise.

"I have never touched a woman against her will, and any implication that I have is simply false.

“I vehemently deny any suggestion that I forced myself on a woman or demanded sexual favours. That simply, and unequivocally, never happened..."

Arcade Fire have played shows in Dublin this week and are due to start a few UK dates, which kick off on Friday night.

They are then set to do gigs across Europe, the US and Canada.

Advertisement

Arcade Fire returns to Montreal for first time since sexual assault allegations

Daniel J. Rowe CTVNewsMontreal.ca Digital Reporter

@DanielJRowe42 Contact

Arcade Fire returns to the Bell Centre tonight.

That line would typically be ended with an exclamation point, but for the local band's first show in Montreal since headlining Osheaga in July, the homecoming is less of a triumphant return this time.

It is the last show of the band's "We" tour and the first since the American music publication Pitchfork's story on the sexual misconduct allegations against frontman Win Butler by multiple people.

If ticket prices are any indication, the band is not commanding the demand it once did.

The ticket reseller Stubhub had tickets on sale for as low as $19 on Saturday morning. Premium seats are selling for as low as $52 with general admission floor seats as low as $145.

Evenko has tickets on its site in almost all sections, including general admission on the floor for $166.

People are basically giving away their @arcadefire tickets for tomorrow's #Montreal show. Screenshot from just now on @StubHub . GA floor? $50 on Stubhub or $160 on Evenko's website. Not sure I've ever seen a $10 bell centre ticket, even when the Habs were at their shittiest. pic.twitter.com/wV8cAQ9HaM — Dave Kaufman (@TheKaufmanShow) December 2, 2022

Response on social media has been mixed with some fans posting pictures of packed shows in Toronto on Friday night, while others posted about the vibe being low.

"Okay so I bought arcade fire tickets before they got 'cancelled' - this show is so depressing as an actual fan," wrote one former fan. "Low energy. Low attendance. No one's into it. It's literally depressing."

Other Twitter users replied to the user's post with pictures of fans on the floor enjoying the show.

okay so I bought arcade fire tickets before they got "cancelled" - this show is so depressing as an actual fan. low energy. low attendance. no one's into it. it's literally depressing. — Julian (@JulianStaniewsk) December 3, 2022

"Sick of the pile-on," wrote one Twitter user. "Are people cancelling everyone? The show was packed and amazing."

I agree. Sick of the pile-on. Are people cancelling everyone. The show was packed and amazing. People harping about empty rafter seats. At most shows not everyone can get rid of their tickets when they change their minds. ¯\_(ツ)_/¯ C’est la vie! pic.twitter.com/nzANKmS0Ag — CarolineLubbe-D'Arcy (@cluttercoco) December 2, 2022

ALLEGATIONS AND CANCELLATIONS

The Pitchfork article in August recounted how three young women between 18 and 23 alleged Butler sent unsolicited and explicit texts and photos and aggressively pursued them between 2016 and 2020.

A gender-fluid person who was 21 alleged Butler sexually assaulted them in 2015.

• READ MORE:Arcade Fire frontman Win Butler calls multiple sexual assault allegations false

Butler was in his late 30s at the time and married to bandmate Regine Chassagne. The couple had a son in 2013.

Butler released a lengthy statement admitting to "consensual relationships" outside of his marriage.

Grammy-winning artist Beck was on the concert ticket for the North American leg of Arcade Fire's tour but backed out in October.

Beck made no comment about his reasons for leaving the tour.

Award-winning Canadian singer/songwriter Leslie Fiest also left the tour due to the allegations.

“I’ve always written songs to name my own subtle difficulties, aspire to my best self, and claim responsibility when I need to,” said Feist in a tweet in September. “And I’m claiming my responsibility now and going home.”

Win Butler of Arcade Fire performs at the Coachella Music & Arts Festival at Empire Polo Club on Friday, April 15, 2022, in Indio, Calif. (Photo by Amy Harris/Invision/AP)

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Moscow Metro

The Moscow Metro Tour is included in most guided tours’ itineraries. Opened in 1935, under Stalin’s regime, the metro was not only meant to solve transport problems, but also was hailed as “a people’s palace”. Every station you will see during your Moscow metro tour looks like a palace room. There are bright paintings, mosaics, stained glass, bronze statues… Our Moscow metro tour includes the most impressive stations best architects and designers worked at - Ploshchad Revolutsii, Mayakovskaya, Komsomolskaya, Kievskaya, Novoslobodskaya and some others.

What is the kremlin in russia?

The guide will not only help you navigate the metro, but will also provide you with fascinating background tales for the images you see and a history of each station.

And there some stories to be told during the Moscow metro tour! The deepest station - Park Pobedy - is 84 metres under the ground with the world longest escalator of 140 meters. Parts of the so-called Metro-2, a secret strategic system of underground tunnels, was used for its construction.

During the Second World War the metro itself became a strategic asset: it was turned into the city's biggest bomb-shelter and one of the stations even became a library. 217 children were born here in 1941-1942! The metro is the most effective means of transport in the capital.

There are almost 200 stations 196 at the moment and trains run every 90 seconds! The guide of your Moscow metro tour can explain to you how to buy tickets and find your way if you plan to get around by yourself.

40 Facts About Elektrostal

Written by Lanette Mayes

Modified & Updated: 02 Mar 2024

Reviewed by Jessica Corbett

Elektrostal is a vibrant city located in the Moscow Oblast region of Russia. With a rich history, stunning architecture, and a thriving community, Elektrostal is a city that has much to offer. Whether you are a history buff, nature enthusiast, or simply curious about different cultures, Elektrostal is sure to captivate you.

This article will provide you with 40 fascinating facts about Elektrostal, giving you a better understanding of why this city is worth exploring. From its origins as an industrial hub to its modern-day charm, we will delve into the various aspects that make Elektrostal a unique and must-visit destination.

So, join us as we uncover the hidden treasures of Elektrostal and discover what makes this city a true gem in the heart of Russia.

Key Takeaways:

• Elektrostal, known as the “Motor City of Russia,” is a vibrant and growing city with a rich industrial history, offering diverse cultural experiences and a strong commitment to environmental sustainability.
• With its convenient location near Moscow, Elektrostal provides a picturesque landscape, vibrant nightlife, and a range of recreational activities, making it an ideal destination for residents and visitors alike.

Known as the “Motor City of Russia.”

Elektrostal, a city located in the Moscow Oblast region of Russia, earned the nickname “Motor City” due to its significant involvement in the automotive industry.

Home to the Elektrostal Metallurgical Plant.

Elektrostal is renowned for its metallurgical plant, which has been producing high-quality steel and alloys since its establishment in 1916.

Boasts a rich industrial heritage.

Elektrostal has a long history of industrial development, contributing to the growth and progress of the region.

Founded in 1916.

The city of Elektrostal was founded in 1916 as a result of the construction of the Elektrostal Metallurgical Plant.

Located approximately 50 kilometers east of Moscow.

Elektrostal is situated in close proximity to the Russian capital, making it easily accessible for both residents and visitors.

Known for its vibrant cultural scene.

Elektrostal is home to several cultural institutions, including museums, theaters, and art galleries that showcase the city’s rich artistic heritage.

A popular destination for nature lovers.

Surrounded by picturesque landscapes and forests, Elektrostal offers ample opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, and birdwatching.

Hosts the annual Elektrostal City Day celebrations.

Every year, Elektrostal organizes festive events and activities to celebrate its founding, bringing together residents and visitors in a spirit of unity and joy.

Has a population of approximately 160,000 people.

Elektrostal is home to a diverse and vibrant community of around 160,000 residents, contributing to its dynamic atmosphere.

Boasts excellent education facilities.

The city is known for its well-established educational institutions, providing quality education to students of all ages.

A center for scientific research and innovation.

Elektrostal serves as an important hub for scientific research, particularly in the fields of metallurgy, materials science, and engineering.

Surrounded by picturesque lakes.

The city is blessed with numerous beautiful lakes, offering scenic views and recreational opportunities for locals and visitors alike.

Well-connected transportation system.

Elektrostal benefits from an efficient transportation network, including highways, railways, and public transportation options, ensuring convenient travel within and beyond the city.

Famous for its traditional Russian cuisine.

Food enthusiasts can indulge in authentic Russian dishes at numerous restaurants and cafes scattered throughout Elektrostal.

Home to notable architectural landmarks.

Elektrostal boasts impressive architecture, including the Church of the Transfiguration of the Lord and the Elektrostal Palace of Culture.

Offers a wide range of recreational facilities.

Residents and visitors can enjoy various recreational activities, such as sports complexes, swimming pools, and fitness centers, enhancing the overall quality of life.

Provides a high standard of healthcare.

Elektrostal is equipped with modern medical facilities, ensuring residents have access to quality healthcare services.

Home to the Elektrostal History Museum.

The Elektrostal History Museum showcases the city’s fascinating past through exhibitions and displays.

A hub for sports enthusiasts.

Elektrostal is passionate about sports, with numerous stadiums, arenas, and sports clubs offering opportunities for athletes and spectators.

Celebrates diverse cultural festivals.

Throughout the year, Elektrostal hosts a variety of cultural festivals, celebrating different ethnicities, traditions, and art forms.

Electric power played a significant role in its early development.

Elektrostal owes its name and initial growth to the establishment of electric power stations and the utilization of electricity in the industrial sector.

Boasts a thriving economy.

The city’s strong industrial base, coupled with its strategic location near Moscow, has contributed to Elektrostal’s prosperous economic status.

Houses the Elektrostal Drama Theater.

The Elektrostal Drama Theater is a cultural centerpiece, attracting theater enthusiasts from far and wide.

Popular destination for winter sports.

Elektrostal’s proximity to ski resorts and winter sport facilities makes it a favorite destination for skiing, snowboarding, and other winter activities.

Promotes environmental sustainability.

Elektrostal prioritizes environmental protection and sustainability, implementing initiatives to reduce pollution and preserve natural resources.

Home to renowned educational institutions.

Elektrostal is known for its prestigious schools and universities, offering a wide range of academic programs to students.

Committed to cultural preservation.

The city values its cultural heritage and takes active steps to preserve and promote traditional customs, crafts, and arts.

Hosts an annual International Film Festival.

The Elektrostal International Film Festival attracts filmmakers and cinema enthusiasts from around the world, showcasing a diverse range of films.

Encourages entrepreneurship and innovation.

Elektrostal supports aspiring entrepreneurs and fosters a culture of innovation, providing opportunities for startups and business development.

Offers a range of housing options.

Elektrostal provides diverse housing options, including apartments, houses, and residential complexes, catering to different lifestyles and budgets.

Home to notable sports teams.

Elektrostal is proud of its sports legacy, with several successful sports teams competing at regional and national levels.

Boasts a vibrant nightlife scene.

Residents and visitors can enjoy a lively nightlife in Elektrostal, with numerous bars, clubs, and entertainment venues.

Promotes cultural exchange and international relations.

Elektrostal actively engages in international partnerships, cultural exchanges, and diplomatic collaborations to foster global connections.

Surrounded by beautiful nature reserves.

Nearby nature reserves, such as the Barybino Forest and Luchinskoye Lake, offer opportunities for nature enthusiasts to explore and appreciate the region’s biodiversity.

Commemorates historical events.

The city pays tribute to significant historical events through memorials, monuments, and exhibitions, ensuring the preservation of collective memory.

Promotes sports and youth development.

Elektrostal invests in sports infrastructure and programs to encourage youth participation, health, and physical fitness.

Hosts annual cultural and artistic festivals.

Throughout the year, Elektrostal celebrates its cultural diversity through festivals dedicated to music, dance, art, and theater.

Provides a picturesque landscape for photography enthusiasts.

The city’s scenic beauty, architectural landmarks, and natural surroundings make it a paradise for photographers.

Connects to Moscow via a direct train line.

The convenient train connection between Elektrostal and Moscow makes commuting between the two cities effortless.

A city with a bright future.

Elektrostal continues to grow and develop, aiming to become a model city in terms of infrastructure, sustainability, and quality of life for its residents.

In conclusion, Elektrostal is a fascinating city with a rich history and a vibrant present. From its origins as a center of steel production to its modern-day status as a hub for education and industry, Elektrostal has plenty to offer both residents and visitors. With its beautiful parks, cultural attractions, and proximity to Moscow, there is no shortage of things to see and do in this dynamic city. Whether you’re interested in exploring its historical landmarks, enjoying outdoor activities, or immersing yourself in the local culture, Elektrostal has something for everyone. So, next time you find yourself in the Moscow region, don’t miss the opportunity to discover the hidden gems of Elektrostal.

Q: What is the population of Elektrostal?

A: As of the latest data, the population of Elektrostal is approximately XXXX.

Q: How far is Elektrostal from Moscow?

A: Elektrostal is located approximately XX kilometers away from Moscow.

Q: Are there any famous landmarks in Elektrostal?

A: Yes, Elektrostal is home to several notable landmarks, including XXXX and XXXX.

Q: What industries are prominent in Elektrostal?

A: Elektrostal is known for its steel production industry and is also a center for engineering and manufacturing.

Q: Are there any universities or educational institutions in Elektrostal?

A: Yes, Elektrostal is home to XXXX University and several other educational institutions.

Q: What are some popular outdoor activities in Elektrostal?

A: Elektrostal offers several outdoor activities, such as hiking, cycling, and picnicking in its beautiful parks.

Q: Is Elektrostal well-connected in terms of transportation?

A: Yes, Elektrostal has good transportation links, including trains and buses, making it easily accessible from nearby cities.

Q: Are there any annual events or festivals in Elektrostal?

A: Yes, Elektrostal hosts various events and festivals throughout the year, including XXXX and XXXX.

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