The Barenaked Ladies are thanking fans for their support following news that front man Steven Page has been charged with cocaine possession.
A message posted on the band's website says “the validity of the charges against Steven will be strongly contested.”
Mr. Page was charged with possession of cocaine in the town of Fayetteville, N.Y., on July 11. Two women also face drug charges.
He was released from custody after paying $10,000 bail.
The charge couldn't come at a worse time for the 38-year-old singer, who recently released a kids album with his band called “Snack Time,” and is set to perform at a children's-themed event in Long Island, N.Y., next month.
Mr. Page had been scheduled to appear in a Fayetteville court on Thursday but a court staffer says that has been adjourned to Aug. 26.
“While this is happening, it's business as usual for Barenaked Ladies,” states the band message, posted at www.bnlmusic.com.
“We will continue to perform and look forward to heading into the studio later this year to record a new album. We want to thank our loyal fans for their continued support during this difficult time.”
Fans have reacted with surprise and disappointment on the website's message board.
“I've lost a lot of respect for him today,” says one posting, submitted by someone identified as “shammes” from Albany, N.Y.
“And great timing to promote a kids' CD! ...This is sad news but you see it all the time in the music biz where celebrity is fleeting and egos get bruised.”
“My heart has never sunk so fast,” adds a fan with the moniker “80s Pro” from Toronto.
“I have been a fan since day one. Was so proud to be able to show off Band Number One to my kids with Snacktime. Have NEVER thought of it as a sell-out. I still love ya, Steve. Not sure who I feel worse for — you and your family, or the band.”
