Last weekend, the country was once again shaken by not one, but two mass shootings in El Paso, TX, and Dayton, OH. The events took place at the same time music fans from around the country collected in Chicago’s Grant Park for the 2019 edition of Lollapalooza.
Related: The Revivalists’ David Shaw Announces 2019 Edition Of Big River Get Down Hometown Event
On the festival’s final day on Sunday, New Orleans’ The Revivalists took the stage to deliver a mid-afternoon performance in hopes of giving fans something other to think about than the senseless acts of horrific violence for which America is now known, especially in places of public gatherings. The rock band’s nine-song performance was emotionally-fueled by singer David Shaw‘s acoustic rendition of “Shoot You Down“, an anti-gun violence original which appeared on their 2018 Take Good Care LP.
The performance saw Shaw step to the mic with his acoustic guitar while a large red sign reading “END GUN VIOLENCE” displayed on the screen behind him. Lollapalooza has since shared the pro-shot video of the performance showcasing Shaw’s emotionally-charged delivery of the ballad.
Watch the performance of “Shoot You Down” from this past Sunday below.
The Revivalists – “Shoot You Down” – 8/4/2019
[Video: Lollapalooza]
Shaw also shared a statement regarding the latest shootings via his Instagram:
“My heart is SHATTERED for ALL of the victims and their families. 3 mass shootings in ONE week. The only way we’re gonna turn this around is LOVE. That’s it. Love and kindness and compassion for all of our brothers and sisters dying in the streets, in clubs, in churches, in SCHOOLS, at work. Unity is the way. Not division. This can’t be an US vs. THEM conversation. That’s what it’s been since the dawn of time. That’s clearly not working and NEVER will. This conversation takes real honesty, not aggression towards the opposer. In the spirit of love and my belief in the ripple effect I will ask that you create more kindness and carry the fire of compassion, warmth and understanding with you as badge of honor and truth. I will do the same.”
The Revivalists continue their ongoing summer tour with an appearance at Musikfest in Bethlehem, PA on Thursday. Head to the band’s website for tickets and tour info.