PHIL ANSELMO Shows In New Zealand Cancelled Over ‘White Power’ Incident in Wake of Terror Attacks

Phil Anselmo

Stuff reports that in the wake of recent New Zealand terror attacks, Phil Anselmo‘s upcoming shows in Christchurch and Auckland have been canceled due to the singer’s 2016 “white power” incident.

As widely reported, Phil ended the 2016 “Dimebash” tribute show to late Dimebag Darrell by giving a N*zi salute and shouting “White power” to the audience. The singer said the act was a joke, writing:

“Jokes were made backstage that transpired upon the stage, and it was ugly. It was uncalled for.

“And anyone who knows me and my true nature knows that I don’t believe in any of that; I don’t want to be part of any group.

“I’m an individual, and I am a thousand percent apologetic to anyone that took offense to what I said because you should have taken offense to what I said.”

The Club Tavern in Christchurch wrote:

“The Philip Anselmo gig has been cancelled!!!! We are not interested in the whys so please don’t ask. We do not and will not support white supremacy or racism!!!”

The Aucland venue, Galatos, wrote:

“Galatos will NOT be hosting this show in our venue on the above date. Just today, information has come to hand which has made us uncomfortable about proceeding with this show. Ticket holders pls look to the Promotors web site for further information.”

Tour promoter Ben Mulchin of Valhalla Touring stated via social media:

“I just want to address this point right away – we would never book anyone with ‘white power’ or ‘white power politics,’ or any other silly political agendas. No way. We need to make that very very clear – as music is our livelihood.

“Phil Anselmo had an indiscretion a few years back while under the influence of substances that is widely documented; by making a very hurtful remark and idiotic gesture.

“I honestly don’t think Phil is racist but regardless he has committed a pretty terrible act in 2016.”

Mulchin said that the organizers were considering donating money to the families of those affected in Christchurch as they look for new venues to allow the shows to go ahead, adding:

“On a personal note, I am not looking forward to travelling to Christchurch nor hosting a loud intense concert but I do believe in music as a healing power.

“We discussed on Saturday donating all profits, and $5 per ticket to the families involved with the tragedies.”