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Paramore has rejected a Tennessee resolution celebrating the band for its recent Grammy Awards after the state’s GOP-led House of Representatives snubbed fellow winner Allison Russell.
Earlier this week, the Tennessee House of Representatives considered ceremonial resolutions to honor Paramore, an all-white band that won Grammy Awards for Best Rock Album and Best Alternative Music Performance, and Russell, a Black country singer who won his first Grammy for Best American Roots. Performance. Only the resolution honoring Paramore passed, and House Republican Jeremy Faison led the effort to reject the one honoring Russell.
In a statement shared with The Tennessee On Friday, Paramore lead singer Hayley Williams wrote: “For those who don’t know, Allison Russell is an incredibly talented musician and songwriter. Her music spans genres with strong ties to the folk and Americana scenes. “You may have seen her on stage at the Grammys performing with the great Joni Mitchell.”
“Oh, she’s black too. She is a brilliant black woman,” Williams continued. “The blatant racism of our state leadership is shameful and cruel.”
Williams personally thanked Democratic Rep. Justin Jones, who was the first to introduce resolutions honoring both laws.
“I would like to thank Brother Jones for his steadfast commitment to his community,” Williams wrote. “And thank you to Allison Russell for using your voice and your art to bring people together, not tear them apart. CONGRATULATIONS on your incredible Grammy night. On behalf of Paramore, happy black history month.”
Additionally, Paramore posted on the band’s Instagram Story: “Paramore will not accept any recognition or honor from the TN House until Allison Russell receives the same recognition.”
Russell previously responded to the controversy after Jones faison slammed for blocking the resolution.
“That the TN Republican Party blocked it, I take it as a compliment,” Russell wrote in X earlier this week. “Unfortunately, his intolerance manifests itself relentlessly.”