Here is the full response from the L’Impératrice members who worked with Flore Benguigui:
“We discover the seriousness of the facts and feelings shared by Flore.
While we were a band, united for 9 years, we are saddened by this situation, to have to respond to Flore through the press. She still means a great deal to us, and we know how much the band owes her, both artistically and personally.
But the situations described by Flore do not correspond to the facts.
There was never any control over what she said. On the contrary, Flore has always expressed herself freely about her personal projects and the causes she defends, notably through her personal networks. As far as the band’s statements are concerned, it was decided from the outset that decisions would be taken in a collegial and concerted manner. As far as the recording of the album, the launch of the tour and promotion are concerned, Flore has reaffirmed her determination to continue at each stage.
Finally, since the 1st concert in 2015, the “live” treatment of the vocals has been a collectively validated artistic decision, which has never called into question her qualities as a singer, composer and performer, nor her place in the band.
When Flore informed us of her decision to leave the band, we agreed to continue our exchanges within a constructive and mutually beneficial framework, with a shared desire to respect the future shape of L’Impératrice. We immediately respected his decision, regardless of the implications for the future of the project.
We wanted to continue the adventure of L’Impératrice, because we had to be there for the public and, above all, because our project and desire were still there, despite the ordeal of Flore’s departure. L’Impératrice was an instrumental band, but Flore gave it a voice, and we want to keep that legacy alive.
If the investment and attention we gave her weren’t enough, we can only regret it. In any case, we wish her all the best for the future.”