What your musical preference says about you politically

[Angiekay]

These surveys always make me laugh.


When it comes to the presidential election and rock radio, fans of Led Zeppelin and The Who are more likely to vote for Republican John McCain, while Nirvana and Red Hot Chili Peppers devotees will tend to cast their votes for the Democratic candidate. According to Reuters, a new survey of more than 27,000 fans of rock radio covering almost 70 U.S. stations showed that 84 percent of respondents planned to vote in November. Males and classic rock fans favored Republicans more often, while females and alternative rockers tended to lean Democratic.

About 30 percent of those responding to the survey identified themselves as Democrats, nearly 22 percent said they were Republicans, and 21 declared themselves independents. About 26 percent named a different party or refused to answer or categorize themselves.
When asked their overall preference to occupy the Oval Office, Democrat Barack Obama led the way with 26 percent, compared to 22 percent for McCain and 18 percent for Democratic candidate Hillary Clinton.
The results were part of Jacobs Media's Media/Technology Web Poll IV

[hoagiepete]

All I know for sure is I wish the musicians would stay the hell out of politics. I can name a few that pissed me off so much I would never attend one of their concerts again...or buy their CDs for that matter, simply because they speak as if they really know what their talking about...when they typically don't have a flippin' clue.

What they are really missing is the fact that the US is so split on their political philosophies, these outspoken ya ya's don't realize they will likely alienate half their fanbase, regardless of the position they take. Further proof, they ain't too bright.

Just because they have a pulpit to espouse their shit...doesn't mean they should use it. Shut the F up and play your music.

Ahh. I guess I can go back to work now. Sorry I deviated from the original point of your thread.

[nikki]

While I like all of those bands (with the exception of Nirvana, of course) , I'm a die-hard Democrat and will NEVER vote for the other party. Who does these inane "studies" anyway?!?

[AlteredDNA]

While I like all of those bands (with the exception of Nirvana, of course) , I'm a die-hard Democrat and will NEVER vote for the other party. Who does these inane "studies" anyway?!?

Never say never...

Anyway, I think it has as much to do the ages of people that tend to like a particular style of music as well as their political leanings. Of course, on a board like this, you are going to find a much more diverse and musically informed set of individuals.

Also, the results of most internet surveys are pure rubbish, with the exception of this board, of course...

Cheers...

[Angiekay]

All I know for sure is I wish the musicians would stay the hell out of politics. I can name a few that pissed me off so much I would never attend one of their concerts again...or buy their CDs for that matter, simply because they speak as if they really know what their talking about...when they typically don't have a flippin' clue.

What they are really missing is the fact that the US is so split on their political philosophies, these outspoken ya ya's don't realize they will likely alienate half their fanbase, regardless of the position they take. Further proof, they ain't too bright.

Just because they have a pulpit to espouse their shit...doesn't mean they should use it. Shut the F up and play your music.

Ahh. I guess I can go back to work now. Sorry I deviated from the original point of your thread.

I don't find that deviating at all...in fact, I agree with you 100%!! One of my favorite bands is The Fixx and it drives me NUTS when I go to one of their shows. I can get past a lot of their songs being on the political side, but you're a Brit spouting off about American politics IN America!? STFU!!

[RumTumJM]

All I know for sure is I wish the musicians would stay the hell out of politics. I can name a few that pissed me off so much I would never attend one of their concerts again...or buy their CDs for that matter, simply because they speak as if they really know what their talking about...when they typically don't have a flippin' clue.

What they are really missing is the fact that the US is so split on their political philosophies, these outspoken ya ya's don't realize they will likely alienate half their fanbase, regardless of the position they take. Further proof, they ain't too bright.

Just because they have a pulpit to espouse their shit...doesn't mean they should use it. Shut the F up and play your music.

Ahh. I guess I can go back to work now. Sorry I deviated from the original point of your thread.

I TOTALLY AGREE, and I have made many of your points many times myself (especially the alienation of fans part). I bummed me out a bit when I got the new Eagles album and heard a bunch of Henley political rants. The same goes for the new Toto album and the song No End In Sight. However, I guess, I have just about told myself, especially in terms of the current anti-war ones, if it's just one or two songs, and they are good songs, than whatever. Don't lose sleep over it. One day they will just be a piece of history that describes the time.

But I totally agree. I like to say that politics are the bane of my existence. Non political rock songs (I use Don't Stop Believin as an example) can act more as a unifier than some politicians. LOL!

So an open note to all: By all means, utilize your right as an American (if you are one) to research the facts and vote for your favorite political candidates. However, if you are a musician, please reconsider releasing politically opinionated material. Thanks.


Wow, maybe I got started on that topic again. Whoops!

[Rockindeano]

All I know for sure is I wish the musicians would stay the hell out of politics. I can name a few that pissed me off so much I would never attend one of their concerts again...or buy their CDs for that matter, simply because they speak as if they really know what their talking about...when they typically don't have a flippin' clue.

What they are really missing is the fact that the US is so split on their political philosophies, these outspoken ya ya's don't realize they will likely alienate half their fanbase, regardless of the position they take. Further proof, they ain't too bright.

Just because they have a pulpit to espouse their shit...doesn't mean they should use it. Shut the F up and play your music.

Ahh. I guess I can go back to work now. Sorry I deviated from the original point of your thread.

I agree with you Pete. I think I know who you are referring to here. Bruce Springsteen is the most obvious, and I really wish he wouldn't talk politics at his show either. I am inclined to give him a pass only because I agree with his politics but I can see how if I were a republican, I would be turned off. His fanbase is so huge though, I don't think he gives a shit to be honest.

The Dixie Chicks paid dearly and still are, for their criticism of President Bush. Note to country artist; your fanbase is 90% republican. Don't call out republicans.

[Angiekay]

I agree with you Pete. I think I know who you are referring to here. Bruce Springsteen is the most obvious, and I really wish he wouldn't talk politics at his show either. I am inclined to give him a pass only because I agree with his politics but I can see how if I were a republican, I would be turned off. His fanbase is so huge though, I don't think he gives a shit to be honest.

The Dixie Chicks paid dearly and still are, for their criticism of President Bush. Note to country artist; your fanbase is 90% republican. Don't call out republicans.

Man, the list could be a mile long.

As mentioned already, the Eagles, The Fixx, Bruce, CSN, Neil Young, REM, Pearl Jam, Charlie Daniels, U2, John Fogerty, John Mellencamp....on and on and on.....

Oh and don't forget Nugent-the biggest mouth of them all! lol!

[Gin and Tonic Sky]

All I know for sure is I wish the musicians would stay the hell out of politics. I can name a few that pissed me off so much I would never attend one of their concerts again...or buy their CDs for that matter, simply because they speak as if they really know what their talking about...when they typically don't have a flippin' clue.

What they are really missing is the fact that the US is so split on their political philosophies, these outspoken ya ya's don't realize they will likely alienate half their fanbase, regardless of the position they take. Further proof, they ain't too bright.

Just because they have a pulpit to espouse their shit...doesn't mean they should use it. Shut the F up and play your music.

Ahh. I guess I can go back to work now. Sorry I deviated from the original point of your thread.

I agree with you Pete. I think I know who you are referring to here. Bruce Springsteen is the most obvious, and I really wish he wouldn't talk politics at his show either. I am inclined to give him a pass only because I agree with his politics but I can see how if I were a republican, I would be turned off. His fanbase is so huge though, I don't think he gives a shit to be honest.

The Dixie Chicks paid dearly and still are, for their criticism of President Bush. Note to country artist; your fanbase is 90% republican. Don't call out republicans.

I agree with you both. So does Alice Coooper. This was from 04 :

ALICE COOPER has told the Canadian Press that all the rock stars campaigning for Democratic presidential candidate John Kerry are guilty of one thing: treason. The shock-rock legend, was disgusted when he learned of plans by Bruce Springsteen, John Mellencamp, R.E.M. and other bands to hold a series of concerts aimed at unseating U.S. President George W. Bush.
"To me, that's treason. I call it treason against rock 'n' roll because rock is the antithesis of politics. Rock should never be in bed with politics," says the 56-year-old Cooper, who begins a 15-city Canadian tour on Aug. 20 in Thunder Bay, Ont.
"When I was a kid and my parents started talking about politics, I'd run to my room and put on the ROLLING STONES as loud as I could. So when I see all these rock stars up there talking politics, it makes me sick.
"If you're listening to a rock star in order to get your information on who to vote for, you're a bigger moron than they are. Why are we rock stars? Because we're morons. We sleep all day, we play music at night and very rarely do we sit around reading the Washington Journal."


I think Alice COoper is actually a Republican ( I heard he goes to NBA games with John McCAIN) but he doesnt beat people over the head with it. Hes also a Christian too, but again , he doesn't beat people over the head with it. its ok to have beliefs if your a star- both religious and political - as long as you dont beat people over the head with them.

Nor should listeners discriminate over an artists politcs. I listen to and like both Springsteen and the Eagles, though I agree with none of their poltical statements.

[hoagiepete]

I agree with you Pete. I think I know who you are referring to here. Bruce Springsteen is the most obvious, and I really wish he wouldn't talk politics at his show either. I am inclined to give him a pass only because I agree with his politics but I can see how if I were a republican, I would be turned off. His fanbase is so huge though, I don't think he gives a shit to be honest.

The Dixie Chicks paid dearly and still are, for their criticism of President Bush. Note to country artist; your fanbase is 90% republican. Don't call out republicans.

Man, the list could be a mile long.

As mentioned already, the Eagles, The Fixx, Bruce, CSN, Neil Young, REM, Pearl Jam, Charlie Daniels, U2, John Fogerty, John Mellencamp....on and on and on.....

Oh and don't forget Nugent-the biggest mouth of them all! lol!

You're right...it definitely goes both ways.

[hoagiepete]

[

I agree with you both. So does Alice Coooper. This was from 04 :

ALICE COOPER has told the Canadian Press that all the rock stars campaigning for Democratic presidential candidate John Kerry are guilty of one thing: treason. The shock-rock legend, was disgusted when he learned of plans by Bruce Springsteen, John Mellencamp, R.E.M. and other bands to hold a series of concerts aimed at unseating U.S. President George W. Bush.
"To me, that's treason. I call it treason against rock 'n' roll because rock is the antithesis of politics. Rock should never be in bed with politics," says the 56-year-old Cooper, who begins a 15-city Canadian tour on Aug. 20 in Thunder Bay, Ont.
"When I was a kid and my parents started talking about politics, I'd run to my room and put on the ROLLING STONES as loud as I could. So when I see all these rock stars up there talking politics, it makes me sick.
"If you're listening to a rock star in order to get your information on who to vote for, you're a bigger moron than they are. Why are we rock stars? Because we're morons. We sleep all day, we play music at night and very rarely do we sit around reading the Washington Journal."


I think Alice COoper is actually a Republican ( I heard he goes to NBA games with John McCAIN) but he doesnt beat people over the head with it. Hes also a Christian too, but again , he doesn't beat people over the head with it. its ok to have beliefs if your a star- both religious and political - as long as you dont beat people over the head with them.

Nor should listeners discriminate over an artists politcs. I listen to and like both Springsteen and the Eagles, though I agree with none of their poltical statements.

Alice nailed it!

[Red13JoePa]

I'll be voting for McCain but still like Springsteen, Cougar.

Hell the Stones had a song on their last record blasting Bush and they're my favorite band.


It's kind of like the Coop said, what the fuck do these rock stars know about it anyway, so I put ZERO stock in that shit, just tune it out and continue to dig their music.

Althought, Bruce seems to be decidely more well-read and informed than most of these dopes like greenday, pink, the chicks w/ dicks and Bruce does his politicking from a more respectful, positive, and unifying platform than some "singer/songwriter" going around saying "Buck Fush!"

[hoagiepete]

All I know for sure is I wish the musicians would stay the hell out of politics. I can name a few that pissed me off so much I would never attend one of their concerts again...or buy their CDs for that matter, simply because they speak as if they really know what their talking about...when they typically don't have a flippin' clue.

What they are really missing is the fact that the US is so split on their political philosophies, these outspoken ya ya's don't realize they will likely alienate half their fanbase, regardless of the position they take. Further proof, they ain't too bright.

Just because they have a pulpit to espouse their shit...doesn't mean they should use it. Shut the F up and play your music.

Ahh. I guess I can go back to work now. Sorry I deviated from the original point of your thread.

I agree with you Pete. I think I know who you are referring to here. Bruce Springsteen is the most obvious, and I really wish he wouldn't talk politics at his show either. I am inclined to give him a pass only because I agree with his politics but I can see how if I were a republican, I would be turned off. His fanbase is so huge though, I don't think he gives a shit to be honest.

The Dixie Chicks paid dearly and still are, for their criticism of President Bush. Note to country artist; your fanbase is 90% republican. Don't call out republicans.

The Boss thing really kills me. I love his stuff and don't mind a message (especially in metaphor) in a song. I just don't like the preaching. The protest type songs have been around a long time (60s especially). I'm kind of contradicting myself, but for some reason, that doesn't offend me as much. I'd still rather hear him sing about his cars and babes and shit like that though.

[sniper16]

i dont mind political views in songs in general, and dont mind when they participate in political events, it gripes my A** when they turn thier concerts into political rallies, not everybody in your audiance is a democrat, so leave your views to CNN.
i agree with the poll, most young people are democrats because they believe the retorich the democrats spew.
and most musicians/artist dont have insurance, and write off most of thier earnings so they favor the democrats also.
so heres to another 8 years of democratic rule, and spending our money on lazy people.

[venomnation]

my musical preference says i should have a mullet, smoke dope, and hang out shootin pool all day and night, then drive my muscle car home, beat my wife, and screw my neighbor's wife.

Not exactly accurate, imho...

[ProgRocker53]

My musical preferences say I'm a pretentious, coked-out Libertarian wacko.

[lights1961]

These surveys always make me laugh.


When it comes to the presidential election and rock radio, fans of Led Zeppelin and The Who are more likely to vote for Republican John McCain, while Nirvana and Red Hot Chili Peppers devotees will tend to cast their votes for the Democratic candidate. According to Reuters, a new survey of more than 27,000 fans of rock radio covering almost 70 U.S. stations showed that 84 percent of respondents planned to vote in November. Males and classic rock fans favored Republicans more often, while females and alternative rockers tended to lean Democratic.

About 30 percent of those responding to the survey identified themselves as Democrats, nearly 22 percent said they were Republicans, and 21 declared themselves independents. About 26 percent named a different party or refused to answer or categorize themselves.
When asked their overall preference to occupy the Oval Office, Democrat Barack Obama led the way with 26 percent, compared to 22 percent for McCain and 18 percent for Democratic candidate Hillary Clinton.
The results were part of Jacobs Media's Media/Technology Web Poll IV

you know i agree with this one-- i love classic rock i listen to zep and the who and will be voting mccain!

[Sarah]

That's one thing I didn't like about Generations.. it gets too AMERICA FUCK YEAH

Go back to singing about being lonely on the road, Journey.