Bjarki

Bjarki parts ways with label co-founder after transphobic comments

Icelandic producer Bjarki has parted ways with bbbbbb Records co-founder Johnny Chrome Silver after Silver posted transphobic comments from the label’s Instagram account on a video of trans artist Octo Octa (aka Maya Bouldry-Morrison). The now-deleted comment read: “Better to make it as a DJ to be a she than a he. She-man!”

After the comments surfaced, label showcases were cancelled at Brooklyn’s House of yes and DC’s U Music Hall. Bjarki has now posted a statement about parting ways with Silver and apologizing to “Maya, my fans, and the entire LGBTQQ community.” It reads:

This might be the first time I write a Facebook post. I don’t remember my twitter logins so I post it here. I’M GUTTED, horrible to be in this situation. There is nothing more I dislike than ignorant and negative posts about gender roles in music. My deepest apologies to Maya, my fans, and the entire LGBTQQ community on behalf of my label for my partner’s inappropriate comments. The person working for me has now been removed from the label and relieved of his duties, including social media. Those who know me can assure that I do not hate on other artists.

“Unfortunately, due to the timing of this incident, we feel it necessary to reschedule the tour, only because we would like to come back and make a more concerted effort to transgender organizations and artist to be included for the make up date. Embarrassing enough my label has trans-gender artist on board and I would never want to hurt any of my friends. We will continue to support artists with no discrimination, and will NOT CONDONE the actions of those who do not exude compassion, empathy, and understanding for all.

Sincerely, Bjarki R. Sigurdarson

Johnny Chrome Silver also posted a statement: “I feel so bad regarding the stupid comment I made on bbbbbb label’s Instagram, I never meant to do no harm, so sad that it went this way. I take full responsibility. It was not correct, Bjarki makes music not war. Hope you can forgive me Maya, it was never suppose to sound like this. Those who know us understand our bullshit better. Hope to see you soon.”