Download Festival organizers are launching limited-edition merchandise in aid of the NHS. Earlier today, the news was announced via Twitter. They said: “Whilst we’re devastated DL2020 will not be going ahead, we wanted to use this opportunity to support some true rock stars; our NHS staff!”
So, the T-Shirt will feature the iconic Download dog and the festival’s logo. The front of the T-Shirt reads: “Download Dog say wash your hands!”. On the reverse: “Supporting the NHS and emergency service workers.”
These T-Shirts will cost £20 and can be purchased via the link here, with more information found on the website. Now canceled due to the Coronavirus outbreak, the 2020 headliners included Kiss, Iron Maiden and System Of A Down.
Whilst we’re devastated DL2020 will not be going ahead, we wanted to use this opportunity to support some true rock stars; our NHS staff!
We’ve produced a limited edition t-shirt, with all proceeds going to @NHSCharities, supporting NHS workers.https://t.co/fZIg3ClE64pic.twitter.com/noKdm5hTwB
— Download Festival (@DownloadFest) March 31, 2020
Download released a statement in light of the COVID-19 cancelation: “This decision hasn’t been taken lightly and we’re beyond disappointed. We extend our heartfelt apologies to all of you – we really did try to make this work.”
The COVID-19 crisis remains affluent, affecting the music industry left, right and center. Last week, Victoria Park’s All Points East canceled its 2020 show. They’ve joined a lenghty and ever-expanding list of big festival names dropping out. These include Glastonbury 2020, Download and Isle of Wight, Snowbombing Festival and The Great Escape Festival.
Recently, acts including Bon Iver, Liam Gallagher, and Avril Lavigne have all been forced to delay events or push back forthcoming releases. In the case of Sam Smith, he’s had to push back the release date of his new album, ‘To Die For’, as well as change its title.
It’s maybe not surprising considering the scale of the worldwide pandemic at play, that perhaps the title is not hugely appropriate. For Download 2019’s official highlights, check them out via Youtube below.
