I had an interesting conversation with a co worker of mine this morning about what I’m posting today.
I really, really like the Dixie Chicks. Okay, I love them. They’re probably one of my all time favorite country bands. They’re amazingly talented, and what I really like is that they stay true to their country style and don’t cross over so much into the “pop” country like other artists do. However.....what I don’t like about them is how they chose to be politically outspoken in previous years. This is not to say that they aren’t entitled to their political views; but it does mean that I think it’s socially irresponsible for artists who are regarded as being talented in their area of expertise – be it singing, acting, writing, etc. to view their political gripes in public arenas. Or rather, in the wrong public arenas. I think there is a responsibility to the public to be careful about what you say because there are very impressionable types out there who feel that if their favorite artist of choice is saying certain things then “they must be right”. These entertainers are role models, whether they choose to be or not – and I think that they lose sight of that.
There are a select few who are truly politically and socially active in a variety of political and human affair arenas. And for them, regardless of whether I agree or disagree with their views I have respect for them because they are actively involved and dedicate portions of their lives – and their earnings – for what they believe in.
But armchair politicians – which is what most people are, including entertainers – that have access to the ears of a good majority of the public based upon their gift of talent – should heed more caution when spouting their views. Democrat, Republican, or Independent – is irrelevant to me. There are forums available where their points of views on world and foreign affairs can be heard. And in my opinion, award shows, red carpet events and gossip magazines just are not the places to do it.
7 comments:
Rebecca,
Though I agree that maybe red carpet events etc...should not be a podium to express political thoughts, I am not opposed, regardless of anyones limelight status,to state how they feel....politically or otherwise. We all have the right to "freedom of speech". The Dixie Chicks stated what was on their mind, at a time when people were not verbalizing to any great degree, how they felt about the President or his decisions concerning the war.
The tides have turned, so to speak and now it seems so many..the majority in fact...including some of Bush's fellow Republicans..are on the band wagon with the Dixie Chicks and agreeing with what got them in trouble in stating..in the first place. and since the "sands have shifted", everyone is now ready to make nice with the Dixie Chicks.
I'm happy for them. They are wonderful singers and musicians and there has been a void in country music without them!
I agree, there's a time and place for everything....
Opinions are a dime a dozen....doesn't make one more right than the other....but everyone has a right to their opinion and to be able to state it freely.....maybe a time and place for everything, but in today's world everything seems to merge!
They offended me as a Texan. I won't make nice.
Most of these performers are far less intelligent than the people in the circles I move in. For them to use the podium to lecture me is a huge turnoff. If I pay $100 for a concert ticket, I expect the performer to play not tell me their opinions.
It's not their opinion that I have issue with - I dont have to agree with it, and thats fine. However, it's the manner in which they presented it that I have/had issue with. I just find it irresponsible.
Post a Comment