The 1975’s frontman, Matty Healy, delivered a scathing critique of the music industry during his acceptance speech at the O2 Silver Clef Awards. Healy, who accepted the award for Best Group on behalf of his band, described the music industry as a “cruel and shallow money pit where thieves and pimps run free.” The annual ceremony, held at London’s Grosvenor Hotel, is organized by the music charity Nordoff and Robbins.
In his speech, the 35-year-old singer expressed his disdain for industry events, stating, “I’m just going to be earnest by saying we don’t come to that many things. These things tend to be about the industry, and as you know, the industry is a cruel and shallow money pit, where thieves and pimps run free, good men come to die like dogs.” Healy’s colorful description of the industry is a nod to a quote by American journalist Hunter S. Thompson, originally about the television industry.
Healy’s father, Tim Healy, an actor known for his role in “Auf Wiedersehen, Pet,” was present in the audience. The singer went on to discuss the profound impact of music, saying, “We’re here because of music and none of us can really relate to the transformative experience that a lot of people who are lucky enough to work with Nordoff and Robbins.” Healy emphasized the unique power of music compared to other art forms like literature, paintings, and movies. “I think that literature, paintings, movies, they’re very suggestive, they suggest how you should feel, and music kind of commands you how to feel,” he explained.
Healy also highlighted the inescapable nature of music’s emotional impact. “If a film comes on at the time you’re having a bad relationship, you might be able to turn it off before it affects you, but with music, you’re f*****. It’s kind of the intangible and the in-between, and I think that’s wonderful,” he added.
Nordoff and Robbins, the UK’s largest music therapy charity, uses trained music therapists to assist individuals living with autism, dementia, learning difficulties, brain injuries, life-limiting illnesses, mental health challenges, and those dealing with grief and trauma. Healy attended the awards to commend the charity’s work and to garner “a modicum of good press.”
In the past year, Healy has been embroiled in several controversies, including a podcast episode where he made derogatory remarks about rapper Ice Spice, as well as women and Japanese people. Healy later apologized to Ice Spice in April 2023, stating he didn’t want to be perceived as “mean-hearted.”
The 1975, who rose to fame with their self-titled debut album in 2013, have since achieved five UK number one albums and 12 UK top 40 singles. Despite their success, Healy’s speech underscores his critical view of the industry that has propelled his band to stardom.
Other notable award winners at the O2 Silver Clef Awards included Chaka Khan, Blur, and AC/DC. The event celebrated the contributions of various artists while also shining a light on the important work of Nordoff and Robbins.
Healy’s remarks serve as a stark reminder of the often harsh realities of the music industry, even as he and his band continue to enjoy significant success. His candidness about the industry’s flaws, juxtaposed with his praise for the transformative power of music, offers a nuanced perspective on the world of entertainment.
Source: Press Association
