Slaughter To Prevail vocalist Alex Terrible has issued another statement addressing the longstanding controversy surrounding accusations of Nazism and his past associations with right-wing individuals and the football hooligan subculture.
In a statement shared on social media, Terrible directly denied being a Nazi while acknowledging the controversy surrounding his past, including his former Black Sun tattoo, which he has since covered up.
Terrible also addressed the impact the controversy has had on his professional relationships, claiming that some people and companies have declined to work with him because of concerns about their reputations.
“I am not a Nazi. I have never considered myself a Nazi, and I never will.”
Terrible explained that his involvement with the football hooligan subculture and right-wing individuals began when he was a teenager in Russia. He acknowledged that he was aware of the history behind the Black Sun symbol at the time, but said he viewed it differently within the specific subculture he was involved with.
“When I was a teenager in Russia, I spent time around right-wing people and the football hooligan subculture. I knew what the Black Sun was and I knew its history. But within the specific subculture I was part of in Russia at that time, I did not perceive wearing that symbol as a declaration of Nazism or fascism.”
Looking back as an adult, Terrible said he understands why people interpret the symbol differently and acknowledged that his decision to have it tattooed was his responsibility.
“Looking at it now as an adult, I understand that my personal interpretation of a symbol doesn’t erase its history or what it represents to other people. I understand why people see it and immediately make certain assumptions about me. I also understand that choosing to put that symbol on my body was my decision, and I take responsibility for that decision. But it does not mean that I was, or am, a Nazi.”
Terrible also discussed a difficult period in his life, saying that he struggled with panic attacks, depression and heart problems following an overdose.
He further stated that he does not identify with either side of the political spectrum.
“And I’m saying this clearly right now: I am not right-wing. I am not left-wing. I am a musician, a father, and a husband who is trying to understand himself and become a better version of himself every single day.”
Despite understanding why some people may choose not to work with him, Terrible said he has also decided that he will not work with those who previously rejected him over the controversy but later attempted to establish professional relationships after his success.
“If you don’t want to move forward with me or work with me because of the controversy surrounding my past, I understand. But I also won’t work with you in the future.”
He also expressed gratitude toward those who have continued to work with him despite the controversy.
“And to everyone who has worked with me and continues to work with me — every label, band, company, and every person involved — I truly appreciate you. I understand that sometimes you’re putting your own reputation on the line by standing beside me.”
Terrible concluded by thanking those who have supported him and continued to believe in him despite his past.
“Thank you, genuinely, for not turning your backs on me because of the mistakes I made in my past, and for believing in me as a human being.”
If you’re rocking with The Mosh Network, hit the link and add us as a Preferred Source on Google. That’s the easiest way to keep our latest metal, hardcore, and alternative news, tours, and releases showing up directly in your feed.
