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Hedley dumped by management, radio stations across Canada

Accusations of sexual misconduct continue to mount against Vancouver pop-rock group

 Members of Hedley recently performed at a MusiCounts charity event at Sir Alexander Mackenzie elementary. Photo Dan ToulgoetMembers of Hedley recently performed at a MusiCounts charity event at Sir Alexander Mackenzie elementary. Photo Dan Toulgoet

Amid mounting allegations of sexual misconduct, Hedley’s fall from grace entered free-fall mode Friday morning when the band’s management team severed ties with the Vancouver pop-rock group.

A statement from Watchdog Management and the Feldman Agency reads as follows:

“Given the multiple allegations against Hedley, we have taken the decision to terminate our business relationships with the band, effective immediately,” the statement says.

The Courier asked Watchdog staff if the band had been criminally charged, but received no response. The management company has declined further comment on the issue.

The mounting backlash against the band extended Thursday to a number of sponsors, radio stations and charities.

Multiple media outlets reported that Corus Radio has suspended airplay of the Hedley catalogue across its 39 stations, Airmiles has cancelled contests involving the band and the children’s charity WE has severed ties with the group.

A Globe and Mail report early Friday said the CBC has also stopped playing the band’s music.

Neon Dreams, the opening band on Hedley’s current cross-Canada trek, dropped off the tour Friday morning as well.

“In light of the allegations surfacing against Hedley, we can no longer in good conscience continue on the Cageless tour,” the band said in a statement. “We understand this choice could negatively impact our band professionally but in the end we have to do what we feel is morally right.”

Wednesday’s allegations sparked a polarizing debate among fans defending the band and those speaking out against them. Several accusers are using the hashtag #OutHedley2K18 to collect stories related to the alleged incidents, some of which are alleged to have happened to minors.

“The recent allegations against us posted on social media are simply unsubstantiated and have not been validated,” Hedley’s statement on Facebook reads.

The band was slated to perform at the March 25 awards show in Vancouver, and is nominated in three awards categories: Juno Fan Choice, Group of the Year and Pop Album of the Year.

“After careful consideration of the situation and in discussions with the band, CARAS and Hedley have decided that the band will not be performing at the 2018 JUNO Awards,” read a tweet issued by the Junos, and by extension, the Canadian Academy of Recording Arts and Sciences.

jkurucz@vancourier.com

@JohnKurucz

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