Chris Samuel
Travis Scott has revealed the enduring impact of the Astroworld tragedy on his life. In a candid interview with GQ magazine, the Houston rapper discusses how the tragic incident weighs heavily on him and his deep love for his fans.
Travis Scott Opens Up
On Nov. 14, Travis Scott opened up about the lasting impact of the Astroworld tragedy on his life. Scott’s heartfelt words in the GQ interview demonstrate the distress the tragedy continues to cause him. He expressed:
“I always think about it. Those fans were like my family. You just feel for those people. And their families.”
The pain of losing fans he considered to be close-knit had a profound impact on the rapper, making the tragedy an ever-present burden.
The Astroworld Festival, held on November 5, 2021, turned into a night of horror as ten audience members lost their lives and thousands were injured in a crowd crush at NRG Park in Houston.
‘My Eyes’
Moreover, Scott discussed the challenges he faced while creating his latest album, UTOPIA, in the wake of the tragedy.
The “SICKO MODE” rapper explained how making music allowed him to reflect on life and personal experiences, driving him to concentrate on the devastating effects of that fateful day:
“That moment for families, for the city, you know, it was devastating,” Scott said.
Scott’s lyrics in the song “My Eyes” on the UTOPIA album further emphasize his emotional connection to the tragedy. He sings:
“I replay them nights, and right by my side, all I see is a sea of people that ride wit’ me/If they just knew what Scotty would do to jump off the stage and save him a child.” The memories still haunt him, occupying his thoughts on a daily basis.
‘This Song Is Emotional To Me’
Notably, users on Twitter (X) reacted to the news.
One user named @seokiess_m commented, “I will always get a bad vibe with travis scott for the astroworld situation im sorry he did not make effort to support those victims families at all.” One other user named @Degen_Alfie commented “was a very sad tragedy. No one could’ve foreseen it happened.”
Despite the pain and controversy surrounding the tragedy, Scott wanted to remind his fans that he, too, experiences pain and has concerns he contemplates daily. The Astroworld incident profoundly affected him, and through his music, he hopes to convey his emotions authentically:
“The song is emotional to me,” Scott shared. “It’s one of my favorite songs on the album. And that verse means a lot to me.”
It is important to note that Scott, who initially faced the possibility of criminal charges, was later cleared of any responsibility by a Texas grand jury in June 2023.
Updated By: Chris Samuel (11/15/23 at 4:22 pm)
Travis Scott & Festival Organizers Not Facing Criminal Charges For Astroworld Tragedy
Travis Scott and the organizers of the Astroworld Festival will not face criminal charges over the deadly crowd rush that occurred during the event in November 2021. A grand jury in Houston reached this decision, concluding that there was insufficient evidence of criminal conduct by Scott, the festival manager, and others involved. While this outcome provides legal clarity, the tragedy serves as a reminder of the importance of event safety and the prevention of similar incidents in the future.
Astroworld Tragedy: The Verdict
Travis Scott and the individuals responsible for organizing the Astroworld Festival, including festival manager Brent Silberstein, John Junell of Live Nation, security planners Seyth and Shawna Boardman, and Emily Ockenden, will not face criminal charges in connection with the crowd rush that led to the deaths of 10 people and injuries to numerous others.
The grand jury in Houston decided not to issue any criminal charges, known as no-bills, after reviewing the evidence related to the tragic incident. The District Attorney’s office determined that the evidence did not meet the standard for charging the individuals involved.
During the Astroworld Festival, which took place on November 5, 2021, attendees were caught in a chaotic crowd rush, resulting in crushing and injuries to thousands of people. Over 2,000 individuals required medical attention during the event.
Travis Scott’s attorney, Kent Schaffer, released a statement emphasizing that his client will not face criminal charges and asserting that Scott is not responsible for the tragedy. The focus should now be on event safety and preventing similar incidents from occurring in the future, according to Schaffer.
The Astroworld tragedy sparked legal proceedings and lawsuits, with Scott and Drake, who also performed at the festival, facing legal action. While criminal charges have been ruled out, the incident’s aftermath continues to be addressed through civil litigation.
Updated by Dorian Waller on June 30th, 2023
Travis Scott, Drake Hit With $2 Billion Astroworld Lawsuit
A large number of Astroworld attendees filed lawsuits against Travis Scott, Drake, LiveNation, and Apple following the deadly festival tragedy. All together they are looking for $2 billion to be paid out on behalf of 282 plaintiffs linked to the event.
Travis Scott Names In $2 Billion In Damages From Astroworld
Recently the Astroworld tragedy claimed its ninth and tenth victims after two more victims passed away, including a ten-year-old child Ezra Blout who died from injuries sustained earlier this month.
The newest complaint was filed by attorney Thomas J Henry, Esq. on behalf of concertgoer Kristin Paredes.
“The defendants stood to make an exorbitant amount of money off this event, and they still chose to cut corners, cut costs, and put attendees at risk.” Henry said in a statement. “ My clients want to ensure the defendants are held responsible for their actions, and they want to send the message to all performers, event organizers, and promoters that what happened at Astroworld cannot happen again.’
Astroworld Claims Another Victim. Could Travis Have Done More?
We recently reported on the passing of nine-year old Ezra Blout who was the latest victim of the Astroworld stampede. His family has sued Travis Scott and Live Nation for negligence after the deadly Astroworld concert. A 22-year-old concertgoer has also died from her injuries as well bringing the death toll to 10.
Could Travis Scott have prevented their fates? Fire Chief Samuel Peña told the New York Times that Travis Scott and the organizers could have stepped in and paused the show.
