Deep Thoughts.

[cyrano]

So, recently after purchasing tickets for the DropKick Murphys show next month, I heard second hand anecdotal evidence that the boys in the band are unpleasant racists. Which... I confess, did not entirely surprise me, but it did disappoint me greatly.

And it got me to thinking. How much does the artist affect/taint the art? Where does my support need to be cut off? Do I pay money for a print of a painting made by somebody who believes in the power of the unfettered free market? Do I go buy a CD from somebody who won't associate with black people? Do I see a movie starring somebody with Zionist or anti-Zionist professions? Or directed by somebody who has sex with underage partners?

All this assumes that those professed beliefs are not visible in the art itself. If some Oi band is writing songs about all the god damned Jews, then that's a much easier choice to make.

I strongly encourage, even politely request, that you share your thoughts on the matter.

Comments

[miss-friday.livejournal.com]

I was contemplating this issue the other day as well. Numerous great artists/scientists/philosophers have had (or still have) what average people perceive as abnormal or down-right repugnant person habits or views of the world. This I believe is the sacrifice required to have talent; you get to tap dance on the line separating genius and madness.

That said, as a consumer of art and culture, I have share the philosophy of Duke Ellington, "If it sounds good, it is good."

So even though Wagner and Charlie Parker were each dispicable human beings (in their own way), they created inspiring music which I love.