British signatory Petula Clark expressed dismay and disappointment after her song “Downtown” could be heard in the explosive vehicle of the alleged Nashville bomber moments before the tragic incident on Friday.
“I was told that the background music for that strange ad – it was me – singing ‘Downtown!” Said Clark in a Facebook statement. “Of all the thousands of songs – why is that?”
In surveillance videos showing the time of the bombing, Clark’s pop number is reproduced under an evacuation notice. The singer, whose number appears to have punctuated the suspect’s crime, also expressed “shock and disbelief” at the explosion in the center of the music Mecca. She also said that many listeners found much needed joy and comfort in her hymn, but noted that “you can read something else in those words – depending on your mood”.
The singer concluded her statement by offering words of comfort and sympathy to Nashville residents and those who were shaken by the event.
“I would like to embrace Nashville – give you all a hug – and wish you love, a happy and healthy new year – and, as we sometimes say in the UK, sign Buff!”, She wrote.
Composed by Tony Hatch, Clark’s “Downtown” debuted in 1964 and climbed the Billboard Hot 100 and the UK Singles Chart.
See his full statement below.