Note: This article discusses alleged abuse.
Polyvinyl Records has announced that it has begun the process of pulling Beach Slang and Quiet Slang releases from distribution. In a statement to Billboard, the label claimed that it “stands in solidarity with those who have come forward about their experiences with James Alex of Beach Slang.”
“We have said it before and it bears repeating: Our company operates on the core principle that everyone deserves to be treated with fairness and respect,” the statement continues. “Active accountability builds safer and healthier communities.” It isn’t the first time Polyvinyl has announced plans to take down music in response to allegations surrounding an artist on the label; it pulled music by PWR BTTM in 2017.
Polyvinyl’s remarks come one day after Alex’s family released a statement responding to allegations of emotional abuse levied against Alex by Beach Slang’s former manager Charlie Lowe. Alex’s family stated that “Beach Slang is over,” adding that Alex “has no plans to return to music.” They also wrote that Alex has been diagnosed with bipolar disorder, paranoid schizophrenia, and borderline personality disorder.
Charlie Lowe had previously made allegations of abuse against Alex on Twitter, referring to “constant” abuse that resulted in her being diagnosed with complex post-traumatic stress disorder (C-PTSD). Lowe expressed her dissatisfaction with Alex’s family’s statement, claiming that “past trauma isn’t a blank check to perpetuate more trauma.”
At publication time, Beach Slang and Quiet Slang’s Polyvinyl releases were still available on major streaming services. Pitchfork has reached out to Polyvinyl for further comment.
If you are living with depression or bipolar disorder, and need support, we encourage you to reach out to the Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance (DBSA).
https://www.dbsalliance.org/support/chapters-and-support-groups/
If you are experiencing suicidal thoughts or know someone who is, we recommend these resources:
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline
http://www.suicidepreventionlifeline.org
1-800-273-TALK (8255)