Posted on 07/17/2004 7:56:58 AM PDT by mcg1969
Elton John has said stars are scared to speak out against war in Iraq because of "bullying tactics" used by the US government to hinder free speech.
"There's an atmosphere of fear in America right now that is deadly. Everyone is too career-conscious," he told New York magazine, Interview.
Sir Elton said performers could be "frightened by the current administration's bullying tactics",
The singer likened the current "fear factor" to McCarthyism in the 1950s.
"There was a moment about a year ago when you couldn't say a word about anything in this country for fear of your career being shot down by people saying you are un-American," he told the magazine.
The singer said things were different in the 1960s.
"People like Bob Dylan, Nina Simone, The Beatles and Pete Seeger were constantly writing and talking about what was going on.
Backlash
"That's not happening now. As of this spring, there have been virtually no anti-war concerts - or anti-war songs that catch on, for that matter," he said.
He voiced concern that it appeared acceptable to speak out if you were pro-Bush, using the example of country singer Toby Keith, but not if you were critical of the President, as in the case of country rock band, the Dixie Chicks.
"On the one hand, you have someone like Toby Keith, who has come out and been very supportive of the Bush administration and the war in Iraq - which is OK because America is a democracy and Toby Keith is entitled to say what he thinks and feels.
"But, on the other hand, the Dixie Chicks got shot down in flames last year for criticising the president. They were treated like they were being un-American, when in fact they have every right to say whatever they want about him because he's freely elected, and therefore accountable."
Sir Elton is currently in New York playing a series of concerts.
Golly, we could borrow Old Man Turner's barn and build a stage. Jane and Helen could decorate the old place up real nice. Jimmy could play Gramp's piano and we could get Tommy, Suzie, and the twins to do those routines from the Spring Dance. Joe could print up some tickets.
Gosh, we could have us a real anti-war concert and people would pay good money to get in. What 'ya say, gang? This could get take care of that old war thing forever.
Yeah remember when that goofy Mr. Sarandon gave the "chill wind" speach. I almost died laughing.
The gummints got nothin' to do with rejecting retards like Whoopee. There isn't much of an anti-war movement here because the reasons for war are clearer. What idiots we have are still speaking out. Some of them make movies, Elton.
Political correctness is the Liberal's method of censorship. They created PC for the purpose of infringing on free speech.
Notice how many times and ways they raise PC issues when they are in an ideological argument.
'The singer said things were different in the 1960s
Yes, thank God, things are different from the 60's"
Actually things aren't that different from the 60's. This is just more of the same only its older, spoiled, rich, brats complaining and protesting. Thankfully, some of us actually grew up.
P.S. I NEVER liked Elton John's music, even as a teen. Why? Too whiney.
These people are delusional if they can not see the difference between what Keith said and what the Dixie chicks said.
And they are paranoid if they think it is the government that is shutting them up. It is the public and that includes and my Right To Free Speech to tell Elton to go ^%$%$# Himself and his music if I don't like what he says politically.
The greedy #@$@#$% doesn't even have the strength of his convictions to put his career at risk. How dare we make it so tough on him. Why, he should be able to say anything his little heart desires without any retribution from his fans or the public whatsoever.
Everyone, stand at attention and salute Saddam Elton John.
For the time being, anyhow.
Oops. Nevermind.
Did anyone get the memo from the US government about "bullying tactics"? If you got one, let me know what it says. </ sarcasm>
As of this spring, there have been virtually no anti-war concerts - or anti-war songs that catch on
Ah Elton, maybe you haven't been watching the lying media for the past few months.
Stars should just do their job and shut up.
Oh Lord help me... Just flipped on FM -- three stations -- all playing Elton John Tunes. "Love Lies Bleeding"... "Funeral for a Friend". ugh.
Hey, Elton, here's what I say: Things were different in the 1940s.
People, including those in Hollywood, actually wanted to help the good guys win.
Times certainly have changed.
Elton's REAL NAME is: Reginald Dwight. Henceforth, please refer to him as "Sir Reggie". I'm sure that has certain Pythonic "frisson" to it, eh?
I sure as hell would not pay to listen to a democrat screed. Once they start giving democrat screeds, I stop paying.
Simple.
Things are always different. You Mr. Elton are an entertainer, not a politician. Keep your ideas to yourself.
If this is about whoopie, well than too bad.
Now we know why they are such leftists!!!!!. They really resent the power of the marketplace and would really like a socialist/Commie form of goverment that would force us to listen and buy their products.
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