Yesterday, we were shocked to learn that Lamb of God frontman Randy Blythe was attacked by a crew of hooligans while being a tourist and snapping some photos in Dublin, Ireland.
Blythe seemed to have gotten out of the mess unscathed but still offered a new statement because many people were checking in with him to make sure he was okay. (Spoiler: he's fine.) Here's the full statement, courtesy of Lambgoat.
“Since lots of people are asking, in regards to the incident that happened in Dublin, I am fine- just a couple of scrapes and bruises, no lasting damage. I’ve hurt myself worse before skateboarding, so it’s nothing I can’t shake off- I have a pretty hard head, haha. I explained the whole thing on my Instagram- it was regrettable, but to a great degree it was also my own fault for not paying more attention to my surroundings- I knew better, but I got distracted taking photos.
“I’m just glad it wasn’t any worse, because it could have been. I got off pretty easily, thanks to a good hearted cab driver who scattered those kids while I made it back to my hotel (thank you, whoever you are). That’s why I posted about it, to remind my photographer friends (and anyone else who might be out wandering in any city, not just Dublin) to remain alert at all times. These things can happen very quickly if you aren’t on guard, and it certainly did in my case, in a matter of five seconds or so- learn from my mistake. This is the reality of today’s world.
“And in retrospect, I’m not even mad at these youth, I’m honestly not- it’s more sad to me that jumping strangers is how some kids get their kicks. To me this indicative of a lack of proper parenting- we as a society are failing our children when we raise them in such an over-permissive manner that assaulting random people is considered fun.
“It is true that boys will be boys, and I am certainly no angel- I had my share of stupid scraps growing up. But it never once occurred to me to gather four or five of my friends together and go beat some random person up for that evening’s entertainment. That is not how my parents raised me. It’s weak, cowardly, and very, very unmanly.
“So I ask you, parents- is that what we want for our children? Cowardice and a mob mentality where people are afraid to stand on their own as individuals? I I hope not. Keep an eye on your kids, ok?
“As for Ireland- I’ll be back. No worries- I’m not afraid of your beautiful green island. Unfortunately, I just happened to meet a few of your undesirables, and they exist everywhere. See you on the road.”
I'm very glad Randy is okay, and honestly surprised at how chill he is being about the whole thing. The dude is very zen!
