As previously reported, Metallica vocalist/guitarist James Hetfield recently generated controversy after criticizing entertainers who bring politics to the live stage. Among those to weigh in on the subject was Emmure frontman Frankie Palmeri, who pointed out how people “want political music only if it aligns with their brand of politics and world view.”
Palmeri said the following:
“The “music is always political” discourse is funny. Everyone parroting this wants political music ONLY if it aligns with THEIR brand of politics and world view. Otherwise they seethe and become blood thirsty mutants who literally want people to die for disagreeing with them.”
He also had several exchanges with fans:
Exchange #1:
Fan: “I listen to so many left leaning liberal bands like Fox Lake, Silent Planet, and countless others who have some kind of world philosophy songs here and there and I’ve not been convinced of their lyrics to lean their way. Maybe here and there, but never anything that’s made me go “wow my worldview is forever changed we should totally free palestine.”
I remember a certain band made a song about bringing guns to school and never once thought “wow I should totally do that.” Just put the breakdowns and chorus’ in the bag and take my money and time.”
Palmeri: “For sure.
I am definitely not saying bands shouldn’t say what they want in their music.
Just calling out the selective outrage and hypocrisy these people are droning on about.
If words inspire people, great.
It’s just so obvious they only want to hear one type of message.”
Exchange #2:
Fan: “Is that bad?”
Palmeri: “Yeah. It is bad. How are you missing the point here? It’s weak and makes the entire argument that music is inherently or should be political moot, when in fact they are not open to music that expresses or even alludes to countering their world view. Cowardice and hypocrisy.”
Exchange #3:
Fan: “That’s how they roll. You’re either with us 100% or you’re against us… and in that case, we want you dead.”
Palmeri: “I understand the seduction of it all. The safety, the group think, a chance to lash out violently with your comrades. Dangerous stuff.”
Exchange #4:
Fan: “This is partially true. Conservatives will listen to music that contradicts their beliefs, up to a certain level of pushiness. The reverse is not the case.”
Palmeri: “You know what’s funny? I didn’t even specify what political spectrum people are trying to establish as imperative to the art. Everyone just instinctively knows who I’m talking about. It’s crazy!”
[via The PRP]
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