Open Letter from Greg Graffin of Bad Religion to Fans and the Entertainment Community**
*January 31, 2025 – Los Angeles, CA* – In a heartfelt and reflective message to fans and the broader entertainment community, Greg Graffin, lead vocalist and one of the founding members of iconic punk rock band Bad Religion, has issued an open letter addressing the band’s journey, the state of the music industry, and his personal thoughts on their ongoing influence.
In the letter, Graffin opens with deep gratitude for the band’s loyal fan base, acknowledging the fans who have supported Bad Religion since its inception in the early 1980s. He reflects on the band’s punk ethos, their rebellious spirit, and the long-standing connection between their music and listeners, noting that the band’s longevity is a testament to the enduring power of punk rock and its ability to inspire change.
“This band was never about fame or fortune. It was about creating a space where ideas could be explored, where intellectual rebellion could exist alongside raw emotion,” Graffin writes. “For all the people who believed in our message and stood with us, thank you. We’ve never been a mainstream band, but we’ve always felt we were in touch with something deeper.”
Graffin continues by touching on the challenges the music industry faces today, particularly the rapid changes brought on by digital streaming platforms and the shifting dynamics in live performance revenue. He expresses concern over the commercial pressures that are increasingly placed on artists, calling for a renewed focus on artistic integrity and self-expression in an era dominated by corporate interests.
“It’s no secret that the landscape of music is changing, and not always for the better. Streaming services, while providing a platform for exposure, have led to a decrease in the value of music itself,” Graffin writes. “We need to remember what music truly represents: it’s not just a product; it’s an art form. It’s a tool for connection and transformation.”
The letter goes on to reflect on Bad Religion’s role in the greater punk rock scene, stating that while the band is proud of its legacy, they are not done yet. Graffin reveals that the band is currently working on new material, with a continued focus on tackling the social and political issues that have always been at the core of their music.
“We are not slowing down. We are in the studio, working on new songs that are just as timely and relevant as the ones we wrote 40 years ago,” he shares. “The fight for freedom of thought, for equality, for justice — these issues remain at the forefront of our creative process.”
In closing, Graffin reaffirms his deep respect for the Bad Religion fan community, acknowledging that their shared ideals are what have allowed the band to persevere through the decades. He expresses optimism for the future of music, believing that despite the challenges ahead, the power of music to unite and inspire will continue to thrive.
“To everyone who has ever sung along, bought a record, or stood in a pit with us: you are what makes this journey worthwhile. We may be an aging punk band, but our message remains strong. Together, we’re going to keep pushing forward,” Graffin writes.
Bad Religion is slated to tour in 2025 and has teased new music, with fans eagerly awaiting the band’s next chapter. Stay tuned for updates and announcements regarding their upcoming project