Yesterday, in a sudden and somewhat unprecedented fashion, My Chemical Romance announced their departure from the world of music. Far from a convincing end, they did this through a small statement on their official website, and a cryptic Twitter post from lead singer Gerard Way, along with a picture of Houdini.
This may suggest escapism, but certainly doesn't match their previous announcement of an end for the band. It could well be the end of My Chemical Romance as they have previously existed, but for a band in the midst of creating an album it seems hugely unlikely, and somewhat coincidental, that this is a final goodbye.
Although an opinion up for debate, I consider this band to fall into the category of Emo. Lyrics which are harsh, and that certainly do not promote mental well being, have managed to earn them an army of dedicated followers. These fans are understandably upset - something which would certainly change were they to next announce a miraculous re-formation. Cruel, yes. Sneaky, most definitely. But an un-faultable promotional technique? Most certainly.
As much as I love music, I find it necessary that it's a positive element in people's lives - needless to say I am not a fan of the Emo genre. It seems illogical to add sadness to an already troubled world, and I would dearly love to see the demise of bands such as My Chemical Romance. Music for unhappy times is incredibly important, but artists which feed off and influence the emotions of their fans for financial gain and increased popularity seem as far from a positive attribute to the music industry as literally possible.
My Chemical Romance were on of the most popular rock bands of the last 10 years, and for good reason. After releasing The Black Parade, they received phenomenal success, both with dedicated rock fans, and those who had sworn themselves to a life of pop. It was a brilliantly made album, there is no denying that. However, there is also no denying the dark and depressing nature that it, and their previous music, was built upon.
The influence that Emo bands such as this can have of the mindset and emotions of their fans is not always immediately apparent, even to the listener themselves- but the lyrics and opinions of an artist will always have an impact, especially to their dedicated fans.
While this may not really be the end of My Chemical Romance, their break-up has the opportunity to be prompt the beginning of the end of Emo music. If they do undergo a 'miraculous' transformation, then they have the opportunity to release something good into the world, and to their fans. I sincerely hope they do.
