Eagles of Death Metal enter UK charts after Paris attacks number one campaign
Their cover of 'Save a Prayer' by Duran Duran is currently at number 96
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Eagles of Death Metal have entered the UK Top 100 following the launch of an online campaign to get them to number one in the wake of the Paris terrorist attacks.
The California group were on stage at Le Bataclan theatre when gunmen entered the venue and began shooting randomly into the crowd, killing 87 people. The bandmates escaped the siege, but their British merchandise manager Nick Alexander was sadly confirmed as among the dead.
Shortly afterwards, a Facebook page was set up to encourage music fans to buy their cover of “Save a Prayer” by Duran Duran and “show solidarity against terrorism and support for peace”.
Close to 8,000 people have liked the campaign so far, with the song entered the official chart today at number 96. It will likely climb higher as more date is collated from chart-reporting retailers and streaming services, the Official Charts Company said.
Despite widespread support, some people have complained that the campaign is in “poor taste” and are calling for royalties to be donated to the victims. Neither Eagles of Death Metal or Duran Duran have commented on the campaign, so it remains unknown whether either band would accept the money.
Creators wrote on the page: “Ideally we don’t want anyone to gain financially or promotionally. It’s a statement of peace, love and support, that’s all. If you don’t want to show support in this way then that’s fine, just don’t get involved and do something else to show your support instead. Some offer prayers, some change their Facebook profile picture to a French flag, and we’re doing this.”
To date, 129 people have been reported dead, with at least 352 left injured. Other attacks took place at Le Stade de France football stadium, restaurants and cafes.
Representatives for Eagles of Death Metal are yet to respond to our request for comment.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments