Music community in shock after terror attack in Paris

The International Artist Organisation has joined the many voices across the world in condemning the terrorist attacks in Paris, France. Music, sport and food represent freedoms of expression in some way and they are at the very heart of culture. The attacks last night were on a sport stadium, well known restaurants and a legendary music venue in Paris. 352 people were injured, 99 critically, in the attacks that left 129 dead.

The Bataclan has championed artists from all cultures across the globe from Lou Reed and Emmylou Harris to Prince, Oasis, Snoop Dogg and Bastille.

The Eagles of Death Metal were playing at the venue, and it has been confirmed the band's Merchandising Manager, Nick Alexander, was killed in the Paris attack

Venues such as the Bataclan have acted as a sort of global cultural exchange in the heart of France providing a crossroads at which people come together, learn from each other and leave understanding something new. In a world with increasing requirement for mutual understanding - perhaps more rather than fewer places like that are what we need.
Since the beginning of time, music has always been a message of happiness and celebration. Music continues to transport the word of peace in the hope of global harmony.

Tim Farriss of INXS gave the following statement from Sydney, Australia: “INXS, on behalf of all the artists who cherish humanity, the life and love of all our brothers and sisters from all reaches of the world express our deepest condolences to all those affected by these horrific attacks in Paris and condemn all acts of terrorism anywhere in the world. Like all artists that have a rich and joyous past of performing all over France, the Bataclan theatre in Paris, which we played as recently as 2011 holds a special place and our hearts go out to Jules Frutos and his colleagues at the Bataclan, all the French artistic community - and ALL the beautiful people of France. Vive La France.”

Our friend Robin Aiken from Africa Express posted this: "I'm posting this as a tribute to Nick Alexander who died in Paris on Friday. Nick had worked with us on Africa Express, a "thing" I help manage. I remember a friendly, helpful guy who added his bit of joy to our musical events. I can only begin to imagine the tragedy that his family and close friends must be going through, and I just feel sad for his life being cut short by people who have so badly misunderstood the way to build a better world."

At least 41 people have died and as many as 100 have been wounded in a suspected twin suicide attack claimed by Isis in Lebanon’s capital Beirut. The explosions are believed to have taken place in a predominantly Shia neighbourhood Burj al-Barajneh, to the south of the city, a city official – speaking on condition of anonymity – told Associated Press.

http://www.rollingstone.com/music/news/eagles-of-death-metal-merch-manager-nick-alexander-killed-in-paris-attack-20151114