FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
MARCH 21, 2003
Due to the current war in Iraq and resulting global uncertainty, Melisma/Atlantic rock group matchbox twenty has postponed their forthcoming European concert tour, which was slated to begin next Tuesday, March 25th in Koln, Germany. The dates will be rescheduled for later in the year, and tickets purchased for the postponed shows will be valid for the new dates, which will be announced very shortly. The itinerary includes concerts in Germany, England, Scotland, France, and Holland -- among them sold-out shows at such venues as London's Wembley Arena.
This difficult decision was made in response to a number of factors, including a "Worldwide Caution" issued Wednesday (March 19th) by the U.S. Department of State. In that announcement, it was noted that, "As a result of military action in Iraq, there is a potential for retaliatory actions to be taken against U.S. citizens and interests throughout the world... Terrorists do not distinguish between official and civilian targets. These may include facilities where Americans and other foreigners congregate..."
matchbox twenty lead singer Rob Thomas stated: "Our concern is not only for the safety of our band and our crew, but, more importantly, for the well-being of our fans, whom we certainly do not want to put at risk just by coming out to see us play. As global citizens, not just as Americans, we also feel that it would be inappropriate to be doing gigs just as this conflict has begun. However, we are a touring band, and our commitment to playing live for our fans remains as strong as ever. We promise to cross the Atlantic and do these shows as soon as possible, and we thank everyone for their patience and understanding during this incredibly difficult time in world history."
matchbox twenty is: Rob Thomas, Kyle Cook, Paul Doucette, Adam Gaynor, and Brian Yale.