My Chemical Romance call it quits
After twelve years, the legendary rock band, My Chemical Romance, have broken up. This is a band that inspired generations and gave fans and the music industry a fresh wave of hope. This is a band that braved through the storm when being accused of being a cult. This is a band that will never be forgotten.
Back in the summer of 2006, the Daily Mail accused bands such as My Chemical Romance of being an “emo cult”. After this accusation the band’s latest album, The Black Parade, was shunned along with the band’s fans. But this didn’t faze the MCRmy. The fans organised that they would gather outside the Daily Mail’s office in London and protest against the label they had been given. This is just one example of what the band went through to get where they are today.
Having been bottled when headlining both Reading festival in 2006 and Download festival in 2007, the band disappeared off the radar for several years. In this time each member continued with their own lives. Each member of the band started their own families but in addition, lead singer Gerard Way continued pursuing his dream of writing his own comic book series which was named The Umbrella Academy. Rhythm guitarist, Frank Iero, started a new band: LeATHERMOUTH. Having been raised in a family of musicians, it was only natural for Frank to deal with the problems they were facing by turning to a more punk themed music scene and restarting his career with a new band.
Of course, after a few years the band returned with a brand new concept album, Danger Days: The True Lives Of The Fabulous Killjoys. This album was a major hit and encouraged a new wave of interest in the band.
Fans gathered at the new concerts and, as per usual, Gerard has his hair dyed a different colour for this album. This album was full of bright colours and action whereas The Black Parade was monotonous colours and a slightly morbid tone. That is why the Killjoys fast became a hit.
However, what no one knew until October 2012 was that before recording Danger Days, My Chemical Romance had also made another album: Conventional Weapons. They released the ten track album by two songs each month over a five month period. Having released this new album, and reportedly being in the process of finalising a sixth album, it was a shock to hear that such a phenomenal band was coming to an end. The official statement was posted on the band’s website on Friday 22nd March 2013.
“Being in this band for the past 12 years has been a true blessing. We've gotten to go places we never knew we would. We've been able to see and experience things we never imagined possible. We've shared the stage with people we admire, people we look up to, and best of all, our friends. And now, like all great things, it has come time for it to end. Thanks for all of your support, and for being part of the adventure. My Chemical Romance”
Other bands have reacted to this break up with the same shock that the fans have. Andy Biersack of Black Veil Brides tweeted: “Always had a deep respect for what MCR represented. Thanks for fighting the good fight & giving people hope through your music fellas.”
Aled Phillips of Kids In Glass Houses tweeted: “MCR have split?! Oh. My. God. I am actually devastated. I love that band.  “
These are just two examples of how other bands, who have worked with My Chemical Romance as well as been great friends with them, have responded to the news. It is proof that this band was an inspiration to many, and always will be through everything they have done for the rock community and the fans which have supported them.
My Chemical Romance will live forever.
Keep the faith.