22 Dead in Manchester Concert Terror Attack: Rockers React
In the aftermath of the carnage at Ariana Grande's Manchester concert last night — during which more than 20 people were killed in a terrorist attack — some of rock's most widely respected artists have taken to social media to share their stunned responses to the news.
Everyone's first thoughts are with the victims. As of this writing, the death toll from the bombing stands at 22 — some of whom were children — with an additional 59 people admitted for some degree of medical treatment. Queen guitarist Brian May sent "love to Manchester," while the band's official account added "heartfelt condolences to all those affected." The Zombies described the news as "absolutely devastating."
Kiss co-founder Paul Stanley sent out a pair of tweets offering prayers for the population of Manchester, a city of "wonderful, wonderful people" whom he urged to "take care of each other" while saying the news had left him "heartbroken and speechless."
More loquacious was Aerosmith guitarist Joe Perry, who admitted the sad truth — that "we knew this was eventually going to happen" at a high-profile event like Grande's show. Adding that he's occasionally worried that continuing to hold concerts is an irresponsible risk, he reinforced Aerosmith's resolve to keep playing. "If there's one thing I learned touring all these years, is that you carry on," he wrote. "That is the way you fight back."
The Rolling Stones told followers they were "deeply shocked to hear of the appalling events in Manchester," and added their own condolences to the victims of the bombing and their families.
"I can't believe this horrible tragedy," added Guns N' Roses guitarist Slash. "My heart goes out to all the victims, their families and friends." Bassist Duff McKagan, meanwhile, expressed his support with a hashtag.
Peter Frampton sounded a note of disgust as reports rolled in, describing the attack as another terrible example of "man's inhumanity to man" while sending "thoughts to families of lost and injured."
"Our hearts go out to England tonight," added the Doobie Brothers. "Sending love to all those affected by tonight's tragedy."
The members of Foghat shared their own shock over the "horrific tragedy" unfolding at the show, while Whitesnake frontman David Coverdale sent his own thoughts and prayers, adding, "Words fail me."
Ted Nugent issued a call for a military response to prevent future tragedies like this.
Iron Maiden, currently on tour in the U.K., said they were "shocked" by the "terrible events" that transpired — but assured fans that their previously scheduled dates will go on as planned.
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