Phil Anselmo may have just quit Down.
The aftermath of Phil Anselmo's actions at the Dimebash a few weeks ago, where he shouted "white power" at the top of his lungs and gave the Nazi salute, has reached a new level. After being called out by Machine Head's Robb Flynn, among others in the metal community, Anselmo posted a video apology. But that wasn't enough for one Dutch festival, which kicked his band Down off the bill and specifically stated that Anselmo isn't welcome there. This seems to have seriously affected Anselmo, as he just posted another apology letter where he suggests to his band Down, to move on without him…
To all this will concern,
Every citizen in this entire world has the unalienable right to live with dignity and respect without hate or oppression. And I mean this, with all of my crushed, yet, guilty heart.
It’s common knowledge that we can choose to either learn from our mistakes, or continue on a path of insensitivity and destruction.
I am utterly responsible for the mistakes I have made, and can only give you my word to no longer do them in the present, through ACTION, not just mere words.
My band mates are now experiencing the consequences of my behavior, and I now publicly apologize to them as well. Never in my entire lifetime would I drag them down with me, and I’ve privately suggested to them that they move on without me.
My biggest obstacle(s) are the over-indulging in the booze and blurting out spiteful, ignorant reductions of the human spirit itself. I will address these issues, head-on.
I’m repulsed by my own actions, and the self-loathing I’m going through right now is justified by the hurt I’ve caused.
I realize we live in a society where apologies are NOT accepted easily, yet long for a day when they can be, but I also understand if I’m shunned till I hit the dirt.
From the bottom of my heart, and with all sincerity, I once again am truly sorry for the pain I have caused.
With truth, love, hope & respect-
Philip H. Anselmo
This certainly seems sincere and it's clear to Anselmo that his actions do have consequences, but it will take time to rebuild his image. No word if Down has taken him up on his offer, although I can't imagine anybody else taking over Phil's spot successfully.
