In a blunt and frustrated public statement, Cro-Mags frontman and hardcore pioneer Harley Flanagan has called out some of the biggest names in rock and metal, asking why the private “props” and “respect” he receives from bands like Metallica and Pantera have never translated into the tangible support of an opening slot on one of their tours.
The influential frontman expressed his frustration in a social media post on Wednesday, September 17, posing a pointed question to the arena-level acts who have cited him as an inspiration. The post included a graphic with a direct message, followed by a caption where he named names.
The graphic’s full text reads:
“To all the famous bands that have been giving me love all these years and thanking me for the inspiration, etc., how about giving me a gig opening up for your bands instead of giving me love when nobody’s looking? Thank you.”
In the caption, Flanagan elaborated, calling out a who’s-who of rock and metal royalty. His full caption reads:
“Everyone from Metallica to Pantera to Avenged Sevenfold to Green Day, Turnstile and so on and so on have given me props given me respect and love and called me a legend. It would be nice if somebody gave us a gig instead lol I’ve been working hard since the 80s how about a hand up motherf**kers instead of love when no one’s looking. I’m good enough to inspire you just not good enough to open up for you?? Lol.”
As one of the foundational bands of the New York Hardcore scene, Cro-Mags have been a staple since their formation in 1981. Their aggressive sound and energetic live shows have been a clear and often-cited influence on many of the thrash metal and punk bands that went on to achieve massive mainstream success.
Flanagan‘s call for a bigger tour comes as the Cro-Mags are in the middle of their own headlining U.S. run, which is set to conclude at the CBGB Fest in Brooklyn.
Cro-Mags – Upcoming Tour Dates:
- Sep. 18 – Indianapolis, IN @ Black Circle
- Sep. 19 – Chicago, IL @ Reggie’s
- Sep. 20 – Milwaukee, WI @ Xray Arcade
- Sep. 21 – Detroit, MI @ Sanctuary
- Sep. 23 – Buffalo, NY @ Duende
- Sep. 24 – Cleveland, OH @ Grog Shop
- Sep. 25 – Covington, KY @ Madison Live
- Sep. 26 – Brooklyn, NY @ CBGB Fest
