Geffen Records has issued a formal apology in response to controversy sparked by a post by one of its executives on social media.
Earlier this week, a fan of Jimin (BTS) posted a question on X about his upcoming pre-release single “Smeraldo Garden Marching Band”.
Tagging Geffen Records, BTS’s US distributor, parent company Universal Music Group, and Ray Kurzeka (SVP and Head of Streaming at Geffen), one fan wrote:
“Where are the iTunes pre-orders for Jimin’s “Smeraldo Garden Marching Band” which is coming out next week on June 28th? Also offer a European version without random inclusions so it has a bigger impact on the UK album charts.”
Ray Kurzeka responded to this person by linking to the song “us. » by Gracie Abrams and Taylor Swift and writing:
“Song of the Year…”
Following this, fans expressed their outrage at this response, which many considered dismissive or even mocking.
As the controversy grew in intensity by the day, Geffen Records said on June 27:
“An employee of our label posted a single message on his personal social media account in response to an inquiry from Jimin’s fans. This was done in error and in no way reflects the views of the employee or our company. He and the company are deeply sorry that this happened. The post does not comply with the company’s social media policy.
Our compliance team is addressing this issue directly with him and implementing enhanced controls across the company to ensure this never happens again. As we address this issue, we ask fans to refrain from personal attacks.
We would like to assure you that the planned release of Jimin’s second solo album, “MUSE”, will go ahead as planned without any impact. »
Jimin unveils the pre-release “Smeraldo Garden Marching Band” feat. Loco this June 28, while his album “MUSE” is expected for July 19.
Source : geffen records
