Hedley Withdraws From Junos, Loses Mgmt/Agency Representation After Sexual Misconduct Allegations

Adam Bielawski – Hedley

Hedley’s 2018 tour through its native Canada is still a go after allegations of sexual misconduct against the band have gained attention, but the same can’t be said about the group’s Juno nominations or its working relationship with its management or agency. 

Accusations against the band recently posted on Twitter with the hashtag #OutHedley2K18 include allegations that members of the group had sex with underage fans.

“As a band, we have decided to withdraw our name from consideration for any awards at the Junos,” Hedley said in a statement released Monday, according to CBC News. “We do not wish to be a distraction at Canadian music’s biggest night or to, in any way, take the focus away from the tremendous honour that is the Juno awards.”

The band assured fans it would continue with its upcoming gigs, which are booked through March 23, rather than “cancel the tour and hide.” 

Hedley also referred to its initial Feb. 14 post about the accusations in Monday’s statement and acknowledged that the band should have phrased things differently: “We want to ensure that everyone understands our collective commitment to change, and to do better, is real. Saying a rock ‘n’ roll lifestyle was to blame – or saying certain things happened because we were younger – isn’t good enough. We owe it to our families, our crew, our friends – and most of all, our fans – to do and be better.” 

 

Watchdog Management and The Feldman Agency released a brief joint statement Feb. 16 announcing that the companies were no longer working with the band: “Given the multiple allegations against Hedley, we have taken the decision to terminate our business relationships with the band, effective immediately.”

Pollstar reached out to the companies and was directed to contact a PR rep who noted that neither Watchdog Management or The Feldman Agency would be commenting further. 

The rock act was nominated for Juno Awards in the categories of fan choice, group of the year and pop album of the year. The band’s performance at next month’s awards show was also called off, with a post on Twitter explaining the decision was reached by Hedley and the Canadian Academy of Recording Arts and Sciences “after careful consideration of the situation.” 

CBC News reported Feb. 14 that the backlash against Hedley has extended to radio, with Corus Radio temporarily suspending airplay across its 30 stations and Bell Media dropping the band’s songs from its respective stations. Speaking of the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation, CBC Music also has nixed Hedley from its streaming service and radio. The charity behind We Day has also ended its longtime relationship with the band. 

Hedley’s tour continues with Tuesday’s show at TD Place – Arena in Ottawa, Ontario.