Hedley is no longer performing at the Juno Awards following allegations on social media of the band engaging in inappropriate and predatory behaviour with female fans, some as young as 14.
The Vancouver-based band released a statement on Facebook praising "the bravery of those who have come forward with their own stories," but said the allegations "are simply unsubstantiated and have not been validated."
Hedley is nominated for three Junos and was slated to perform at the awards show on March 25. The Canadian Academy of Recording Arts and Sciences said it decided to cancel the performance after "careful consideration of the situation and in discussion with the band."
After careful consideration of the situation and in discussions with the band, CARAS and Hedley have decided that t… https://t.co/jVufbKs4vh
This week, numerous people shared what they said were personal stories of disturbing encounters with the band under the #outHedley2k18 hashtag. Many accused lead singer Jacob Hoggard of making sexual advances on them at concerts, or inviting them back to the band's bus or hotel room despite being underage.
In its statement, Hedley said it has an "unconventional" lifestyle as a touring band.
"While we are all now either married or have entered into committed, long-term relationships, there was a time, in the past, when we engaged in a lifestyle that incorporated certain rock and roll clichés," the band said. "However, there was always a line that we would never cross."
Since the Junos cancelled Hedley's performance, several other organizations have distanced themselves from the band, according to the Globe and Mail. WE Charity, formerly known as Free The Children, will no longer work with the band in light of the sexual misconduct allegations, and Air Miles told the paper it's cancelling a contest to win VIP concert tickets.
BuzzFeed Canada reached out to Hedley and the band's record label for comment.
