Music + Politics: Responses To Charlottesville

The horrible events of last weekend show that change is necessary in this country. Here's some ways the music world reacted to Charlottesville:

Spotify is cracking down on racist bands. Yeah, unfortunately, white supremacists make music too, and it makes its way to streaming services. Earlier this week, after Digital Music News published a list of 27 white supremacists bands an author found on Spotify, Spotify removed many and is investigating the rest. The company stated, “material that favors hatred or incites violence against race, religion, sexuality or the like is not tolerated by us.”

Wilco released “All Lives, You Say?” It’s a typically laid back Jeff Tweedy tune, but politically charged. A tribute to Tweedy’s father, buying the song will benefit the Southern Poverty Law Center.

Johnny Cash’s family makes a statement. After a picture of a “self proclaimed neo-nazi” wearing a t-shirt with the singer’s name began circulating, his daughter Roseanne reiterated her late father’s passion for equality; the singer released an album about the inequality Native Americans faced in the 60’s, a risky career move.

Prince Gets His Own Shade Of Purple

Purple, associated with individualism, ambiguity, and of course, royalty, was a fitting color for Prince to embrace. This week, the Pantone Color Institute gave the late artist his own shade, dubbed "Love Symbol #2." The symbol refers to the character Prince renamed himself as in the 90's. As far as shades of purple go, "Love Symbol #2" is deep, dark and mysterious; a good fit for The Purple One.

Other Highlights

Taylor Swift wins her lawsuit against the former radio host, Bonnie Tyler will sing “Total Eclipse Of The Heart” during the actual eclipse on Monday, fandom in map form, Amazon will soon sell everything AND concert tickets, an orchestra made of veggies, a new (strange!) music video from Grizzly Bear, RIP Dave Deporis, and another example of terrible, terrible music marketing.

NEWS ROUNDUPReactions to Charlottesville, Prince's Pantone Purple and More