Gorilla T backs out of GRiZ’s Seven Stars Festival after controversy resurfaces

Gorilla T’s decision to step back from Seven Stars Festival signals an effort to prioritize respect for the community.

Gorilla T has withdrawn from Seven Stars Festival, the artist-curated event led by GRiZ, following backlash tied to a resurfaced controversy, saying his presence would take focus away from the event this fall. In a statement shared with fans, the dubstep DJ addressed a past interaction that sparked criticism.

The statement read: “Earlier this year, I made a comment in a private message responding to criticism from a fan, and reacted by telling them to harm themselves,” he wrote. He acknowledged the severity of the remark, adding, “This was an impulsive and non-literal comment, and it was a very wrong thing to do. There’s no excuse for speaking to someone that way, and I take full responsibility for my actions.”

The move was intended to protect Seven Stars Festival and its fans. With fan response driving the decision, Gorilla T’s exit shows how seriously the event’s culture and community expectations are taken.

Gorilla T said he had apologized to the individual at the time and has since taken steps to address his behavior. “I’ve spent the time since working in therapy to make sure I don’t repeat that kind of behavior ever again,” he said.

He also revealed that in the time since the incident, he has gotten sober and committed to making meaningful changes. He said he is now in an alcohol recovery program and attending weekly therapy, where he is working on his behavior, mental health and how he presents himself as a person.

Despite those efforts, the artist said public reaction to the festival lineup made his participation untenable. “The response made it clear that my presence would be a distraction from what the festival is about,” he wrote.

“I hear the community, and out of respect for everyone involved … I’ve decided to step down from the lineup.” The October festival has not announced a replacement.

Featured image credit: Relentless Beats

About The Author

Ashley Palya

I’ve been writing, covering events, and doing interviews with Exron for nearly four years, but have been an EDM-lover for over a decade. The music community and industry has a special place in my heart and I love exploring the depths. EDC Las Vegas is my favorite festival and this year will be my sixth time attending. Some other recent festivals I’ve been are Ultra, Elements, Lost Lands, Electric Forest, and Arc. I’ve been getting more into experimental bass, but techno and house will always have my heart. <3

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