Why I'm not boycotting Kasabian..

Whether you're a fan or even just know of Kasabian, then you'll have probably heard about the recent conviction of Tom Meighan. Meighan, the ex frontman, pled guilty today to assaulting his ex-fiancee today and was sentenced with 200 hours of community service along with five days of rehabilitation.

This is an unsatisfying consequence. During lockdown, domestic violence cases have been said to have more than doubled. Community service simply doesn't reflect the life long effect domestic violence has on a victim, both physically and mentally.

After his unforgivable behaviour came to light, Meighan was asked to leave the band, and rightfully so, but what does this mean for the rest of the band?

The band have been active for 23 years, producing 6 studio albums, all of which were nominated for Brit, NME or Q awards. This level of successful doesn't stem from one band member. In fact, all of their albums were predominantly written by guitarist and vocalist, Sergio Pizzorno. Former guitarist, Chris Karloff, also wrote their first two albums before leaving the band in 2006. So if Meighan isn't the sole creator of Kasabian or their music, why should Pizzorno have to deal with the fact listeners may now be boycotting Kasabian, due to actions that had nothing to do with him, or the band for that matter.

It's undeniable that Meighan's actions are unforgivable. He has now left the band and the rest of the band have made it indisputably clear that they disagree with his actions, tweeting "there is absolutely no way we can condone his assault conviction. Domestic violence and abuse of any ex-fiancee is totally unacceptable".

So if they have quickly and publicly dismissed him from the band, why should his actions taint the way people see Kasabian and their music?

Listening to music is a very personal activity, I understand why some people may struggle to separate Meighan from the music. Personally, I enjoy Kasabian's music and am able to separate the music from this particular band member. I believe, the hard work and talent contributed to the music over the years shouldn't now be tainted in the eye of the listener due to something that was out of their control.