The Black Crowes vocalist Chris Robinson is addressing the viral reaction that followed his stage comments during a concert in Tampa, Florida, on Sunday, May 31. The incident, which drew audible backlash from the audience, has since become a subject of intense online debate.
“One of the things this country was founded on is being able to say whatever you want,” Robinson told UCR in a recent interview. “And that’s both sides of whatever you pick.”
The controversy reportedly began when an image of the band’s black crow mascot, dressed as Uncle Sam, appeared on the stage screens. According to reports, some members of the crowd began chanting “U.S.A.,” to which Robinson replied, “Thanks for the geography lesson. I don’t know what you have to be so proud of.”
Addressing the Controversy
Following the initial exchange, video footage captured Robinson addressing the crowd, stating, “…some of us have real faith, and for those of you f—ing booing us, some of us are not afraid. And we are most assuredly not f—ing ignorant, so thank you!”
Robinson noted that his comments were consistent with sentiments he has expressed during recent interviews regarding the band’s latest album, A Pound of Feathers, where he has voiced frustration with the current state of the country. He maintained that the situation in Tampa was taken out of context to generate clicks and stir up animosity.
“I think the whole thing was, of course, blown out of context so people can get clicks and people can stir up the animosity and philosophies or how you feel about life,” Robinson said. “But be most assured, you know, whatever. It doesn’t matter. In a week, something else will come up that will stir up the hornets’ nest.”
Clarifying His Stance
Robinson took the opportunity to clarify his position, particularly regarding his respect for military veterans. “No matter what I ever would say or do or feel about things, there’s no way I would disrespect our veterans,” he explained. “I’m a person that I wish we had moved along as a species not to have violence be the way that we resolve conflicts.”
He emphasized that his comments were not driven by a specific political agenda. “I have to speak my mind. But I don’t have an agenda or anything, you know what I mean? I’m just trying to make a soulful connection with people and we’ll continue to endeavor to persevere.”
The Black Crowes are currently on their Southern Hospitality Tour, which kicked off last month in Austin and is scheduled to continue through August 20 in Mountain View, California. The tour features support from Whiskey Myers and Southall, with various special guests joining the band at select stops.
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