Singer discusses how music helps ease personal tragedy
Emo band Brand New has recently made a notable announcement about their upcoming performances, marking their return to the stage after a period of approximately ten years. Frontman Jesse Lacey, who has encountered controversy in the past, has revealed a new and deeply personal song prior to these anticipated show dates. Reports from Loudwire indicate that Lacey has been engaging in a series of intimate concerts over the recent months, culminating in the debut performance of a track titled “Death” during an encore at the East Bowl in Nashville, Tennessee, on March 2. The emotional significance of this song was unveiled by Lacey himself, as he shared with the audience that it was inspired by the heartbreaking loss of his stepson, Miles King Lacey, in 2022. This raw expression of grief and vulnerability during the concert struck a chord with many fans and listeners, shining a light on a poignant aspect of Lacey’s personal life that had previously been kept private.
In a snippet of video captured at the concert, Lacey opened up about the emotional turmoil he experienced, admitting, “It was as hard you can imagine… I would say his name, because you have him to thank also for me being up here. He was a very, very, very easy boy to love.” Through his music, Lacey found solace in the face of profound loss, recognizing the cathartic power of artistic expression as a means to navigate the weight of grief. The act of being on stage and connecting with others served as a form of healing for him, offering a respite from the heavy burden of sorrow that accompanies such profound loss.
Brand New has maintained a relatively low profile following allegations of sexual misconduct leveled against Lacey by two women in 2017. According to reports from Brooklyn Vegan and NPR, these accusations detailed disturbing incidents, including soliciting nude photos from an underage girl and engaging in inappropriate behavior during video chats. In response to these allegations, Lacey issued a public statement on Facebook, expressing remorse and acknowledging the harm he had caused. He admitted to his past mistakes, taking full responsibility for his actions and expressing a desire to earn forgiveness and rebuild trust with those affected by his behavior.
As Brand New prepares to make their long-awaited return to the stage, fans and critics alike are left to grapple with the complex legacy of the band and its frontman. The unveiling of “Death” as a tribute to Lacey’s late stepson offers a glimpse into the intimate struggles and emotional depths that underpin the music of Brand New. Despite the controversies and challenges that have marked Lacey’s career, his willingness to confront personal tragedy through his art provides a poignant reminder of the redemptive power of music in times of profound sorrow and loss.