“It really is about two human beings that have been through hell.”
Avenged Sevenfold frontman M. Shadows has defended his recent decision to record a personal video message to two Israeli hostages freed by Hamas, calling it a gesture of “pure humanity, not politics.”
In a post that’s already kicked off a firestorm online, Shadows said the message was intended to offer “support and compassion to two people who’ve survived unimaginable trauma,” insisting it wasn’t a political statement.
“It really is about two human beings that have been through hell,” he explained. “If anyone sees something deeper than that, that’s on them. I’ve always believed in empathy first.”
The singer’s statement comes as musicians around the world remain fiercely divided over the ongoing Israel–Palestine conflict, especially after Disturbed’s David Draiman came under fire for signing an Israeli Defense Forces artillery shell during a visit to a military base last year.
Despite the backlash, Shadows voiced “respect” for Draiman — while acknowledging their approaches differ:
“I respect David as a person and as an artist. He’s passionate and he stands for what he believes in. I might not do things the same way, but I’ll never attack another musician for trying to do good in their own way.”
🎸 Avenged Sevenfold have long been outspoken about empathy, freedom of expression, and mental health awareness, but Shadows’ remarks have stirred up fierce debate — with some fans praising his humanity, and others accusing him of ignoring the wider political implications.
As one fan on Reddit put it: “It’s tough when compassion gets caught in the crossfire of politics. Shadows meant well, but everything’s a landmine right now.”
Whether you agree with him or not, M. Shadows’ message is a rare call for empathy in a world that’s feeling more divided than ever. ❤️🔥
Michael is the founder, editor, and chief riff wrangler behind The Riff Report, an independent Welsh rock and metal publication built by fans, for fans. With a lifelong passion for loud guitars, unforgettable live shows, and the incredible community that surrounds rock and metal, he created The Riff Report to celebrate everything that makes the scene special—from legendary headline acts and grassroots venues to rising bands that deserve to be heard.
A familiar face at festivals across the UK, Michael spends much of the year covering events including Download Festival, Bloodstock Open Air, Steelhouse Festival, Firevolt, Plumpton Revival, and many more. Whether he’s battling the Welsh weather on a mountainside, surviving a weekend in a muddy campsite, or squeezed against the front barrier with thousands of fellow fans, he’s always searching for the next great story to share.
As editor of The Riff Report, Michael writes festival guides, breaking news, album reviews, gig reviews, interviews, opinion pieces, nostalgia features, and behind-the-scenes stories from across the rock and metal world. His writing combines honest opinions, humour, and a genuine love for live music, bringing readers closer to the bands, festivals, venues, and people that keep the scene alive.
Michael is particularly passionate about supporting independent artists, local venues, charities, and the wider UK rock and metal community. He believes every band deserves a chance to be discovered and every festival has a story worth telling. Through The Riff Report, he aims to shine a spotlight on both the biggest names in rock and the future stars waiting to break through.
When he’s not writing or interviewing artists, you’ll probably find him exploring festival campsites, photographing live shows, chatting with fellow fans over a pint, or planning the next road trip in search of more riffs, bigger crowds, and unforgettable moments.
Above all, Michael believes rock and metal are about more than music—they’re about community, friendship, and creating memories that last a lifetime. That’s exactly what The Riff Report exists to celebrate.
Proudly Welsh. Proudly Loud. Always chasing the next great riff. 🤘
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