The American post-hardcore/alternative rock band Slaves -- as opposed to the punk-ish UK duo Slaves -- are changing their name over its obvious racial connotations. While they haven't said what they're changing it to, or when, they have issued a statement. "The name ‘Slaves’ was conceived as a reference to the band’s battle with substance abuse in the past, to the idea that we become enslaved by our addictions and by our own demons. Our goal has always been to tackle these difficult subjects head on, as well as to build a community and share stories of hope to let others know that their inner demons can be defeated."
"However,” the statement continues, "this definition of the name neglects to take ownership of its racial connotations. As obstinate supporters of the BLM movement, we cannot continue to tie our music and our positive message to a word associated with such negative weight and hurt."