Avenged Sevenfold's lead singer, M. Shadows, recently shared his thoughts on a video message he sent to two Israeli hostages, Evyatar David and Guy Gilboa-Dalal, who were freed after two years in captivity. Guy, a huge fan of the band, has spoken about how their music helped him cope during his ordeal in Gaza. Shadows' message was simple and heartfelt, expressing excitement for their return and acknowledging the terrible experiences they endured.

The video, initially intended for the hostages only, sparked debate when it was released publicly. Shadows addressed the backlash, emphasizing that his message was not political but a human gesture of support. He believes in following his moral compass and standing by his actions, regardless of the criticism. Shadows highlighted the importance of empathy and understanding, stating that if people can't agree on basic human decency, it's hard to agree on anything else.

The band has a strong connection to Israel, having performed there before and knowing people affected by the conflict. Shadows mentioned that two cousins they knew were killed on October 7, 2023, which deeply impacted him. He stressed that his actions were not politically motivated but driven by personal connections and a desire to support fans in need.

Shadows also discussed the challenges of navigating public opinion, especially in a divided world. He mentioned receiving feedback from fans across different cultures and religions, including those who were disappointed by the video. Despite the criticism, Shadows remains committed to his humanist approach, believing in supporting fans regardless of their background.

The band's experience in the Middle East goes beyond recent events. They have performed for U. S. service members during the Gulf War and have songs that touch on themes of faith, conflict, and country. Shadows emphasized their inclusive approach to music, aiming to connect with fans from all walks of life.

Looking ahead, Shadows is embracing the band's newfound independence after years with major labels. He sees this as an opportunity to return to the DIY ethics that helped them break into the industry. Shadows believes that the current music landscape, driven by platforms like TikTok, presents unique challenges but also offers a fairer system where hard work and talent prevail.

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