Homewrecker Give Frontman Matt Barnum the Boot
Following multiple allegations of sexual misconduct against frontman Matt Barnum that saw the band lose their record label deal, the three other members of Homewrecker have fired their vocalist.
Dozens of women, many of whom were under 18 at the time, have shared their stories on this Instagram account in the past few days, detailing Barnum’s grooming, manipulation, aggressive solicitation of nude selfies and efforts to have sex with them.
Homewrecker’s statement about their dismissal of Barnum from the band (penned by drummer Matt Izzi), and their feelings on the issues that have recently come to light, reads as follows:
“Over the past 24 hours I’ve been spending my time reaching out to women who have been sharing their stories, and that is my first priority. This has given me the opportunity to listen, learn, and engage in one on one conversations. This is about women being heard, and to me I did not fully understand the true gravity of what was going on. I am sick! Matt Barnum’s behavior over time has been carefully crafted in order to conceal his true intentions, while deceiving his closest friends.
“I empathize with all those who have been extremely brave to share their stories, as well as the ones who have yet to. My heart pours out for you. I am listening, I am here, and this is very terrible—beyond comprehension. I feel like someone I have known for 10+ years has been a lie, and now I’m getting a full picture at the type of man he is, it’s terrifying.
“We all knew Barnum was flirtatious, he was a mutual friend with everybody, and slept around. I found out today, he would give guests lists spots and merch in exchange for nudes. I found out today, he booked tours around which cities a women he was talking to, so they can hook up while everybody would be sleeping.
“I’m fucking pissed off, because when I started this band with Ryan Spoz 12 years ago, it was a passion, a love for creating music with your best friends. Writing songs about personal problems provided me an outlet to express myself, only to be driven into the ground by Barnum’s egotistical lying using the band for the sole purpose of manipulating and taking advantage of young women.
“I’m ashamed to be proud of being in this band. I’m ashamed in myself for not digging and prying deeper to fully know what the hell is really happening.
“I’ve struggled with confrontation for a long time, so challenging him in the past on what goes against my moral beliefs, only to be manipulated to make me feel crazy at times, even guilty is just truly crushing. He’s a fucking con, and I’m angry!
“Our relationship was hollow, and far from genuine. The last four years I had to slowly step back from this band, and start to grow up and take control of my life. He never has once taken accountability in anything, you pour your heart out to him, and he turns it around on you. I’m truly sick seeing all of this, and what I’ve learned from reaching out is it’s all true. I hear you all!
“There’s a Barnum everywhere especially in the music scene. It needs to end, now! All need to be held accountable.
“The respect I have for this platform to show the truth is huge, and sadly it is just unfolding. I don’t want this to end, so please if anybody wants to talk about this—I am here for you. Know you’re not alone.
“I want to make it clear without question, Matt Barnum is no longer a part of Homewrecker. I along with the rest of my bandmates vehemently oppose his actions and do not condone this despicable behavior.
– Matt Izzi, Paul Aloisio, Dalton Edwards
Earlier today, Code Orange issued a statement about Barnum, who had served as a member of their touring crew over the years.
