Petula Clark condemns Nashville bomber for playing ‘downtown’ before explosion – Deadline

British singer Petula Clark expressed dismay and disappointment after her song “Downtown” could be heard from the explosive-filled vehicle of the suspected Nashville bomber moments before Friday’s tragic incident.

“I was told the music in the background of that weird ad – it was me – singing ‘Downtown! Clark said in a statement on Facebook. “Of all the thousands of songs – why this one?”

In surveillance videos depicting the timing of the bombing, Clark’s pop number plays under an evacuation warning. The singer, whose number appears to have marked the alleged attacker’s crime, also expressed “shock and disbelief” at the explosion in downtown music mecca. She also said many listeners found much needed joy and solace in her hymn, but noted that “you can read something else in these words – depending on your state of mind.”

The singer concluded her statement by offering words of comfort and sympathy to the residents of Nashville and those who were shaken by the event.

“I would like to wrap my arms around Nashville – give you all a hug – and wish you love, a healthy happy new year – and, as we sometimes say in the UK, stabilize the Buff!” , ”She wrote.

Composed by Tony Hatch, Clark’s “Downtown” debuted in 1964 and climbed the Billboard Hot 100 and UK Singles Chart.

See his full statement below.