Baby Blue’s Rhea Caldwell tackles abuse in the music industry

Melbourne garage outfit Baby Blue comprises members of Courtney Barnett’s band, Coastbusters and 19th Century Strongmen. They released their second EP Do What You Like on June 1 via Neat Lawn. We’ve invited vocalist Rhea Caldwell to write about a topic she feels strongly about.

There are many of us that have been sexually abused by people in the music industry.
This poem is for the abusers and to those who actively choose to continue to support them regardless.

We know what you have done
We are watching you, specifically

We huddle together in groups of ‘those that know’ at festivals and gigs
When you come near us we will shoot daggers at you
with our eyes telling you
to steer clear
If you come even closer still
we will verbally tell you
to steer clear

Listen

Sometimes we choose to avoid you altogether
We don’t make eye contact
We walk in the other direction
We avoid playing on the same line ups as you
We avoid going to our friends parties for fear you may be there
We avoid going to see bands we love

You party on regardless

We know what you have done
We are watching you, specifically

There are some that still support you
‘They’re not all that bad’ they say
These people are not brave
These people need to stop supporting you
Take us seriously
Take this seriously
Can’t you hear?

Listen

There are others
that are more deserving than you
Others that are fighting
for good and kindness in the world
Others that are under-represented
Others
that don’t abuse people

You abuse people

We know what you have done
We are watching you, specifically

Take us seriously
Take this seriously