I'm confused... didn't Pearl Jam just play in Chile a few months ago? Isn't abortion illegal there? Like 100% illegal, even in rape cases? Aren't there numerous other human rights concerns there and in the other countries they played? Sounds like selective/fashionable outrage.
It's called picking your battles.
With all its sham, drudgery, and broken dreams, it is still a beautiful world. Be careful. Strive to be happy. ~ Desiderata
I wonder if Pearl Jam would of cancelled the Oracle show if it was in NC?
Springfield 4/6/94, Boston 4/6/94, Hartford 10/2/96, New York 9/11/98, Hartford 9/13/98, Mansfield 8/30/00, Boston 9/28/04, Reading 10/1/04, Quebec City 9/20/05, Boston 5/24/06, Hartford 5/13/06, New York 6/25/08, Hartford 6/27/08 Philadelphia 10/31/09, Hartford 10/15/10, Boston 10/17/10, East Troy 9/3/11, East Troy 9/4/11, Missoula 9/30/12, Worcester 10/15/13, Hartford 10/25/13, Charlottesville 10/29/13, St. Paul 10/19/14, New York 9/26/15, Quebec City 5/5/16, Boston 8/5/16, Boston 9/2/18, Boston 9/4/18, Quebec City 9/1/22, Camden 9/14/22, Oklahoma City 9/20/22
It sucks that I'm out hundreds in travel expenses. I made plans to go to this show because my friend won the lottery that I got completely shut out of, again. While I am extremely disappointed that this happened, I'm directing my anger to the lawmakers in NC responsible for this pathetic law. Seriously, fuck those people. Fuck the NC governor, and fuck anyone that supports this law.
1998: Pitt
2000: Pitt
2003: Pitt, State College, Columbus,DC, Hershey
2004: Reading, Toledo, DC
2005: Pitt
2006: Cleve, Camden 1+2, DC, Pitt, Cinci
2008: Camden 1+2, DC
2009: Philly 3
2010: Columbus
2012: Philly
2013: Pitt, NYC 1+2
In solidarity with Pearl Jam in their decision to cancel the NC show to show support for LGBT rights, I'm offering up one free Wrigley Field night 2 ticket (Monday Aug 22nd) to someone who lost out on the Raleigh date. It's not a Ten Club seat but it's decent: Terrace 213 or something like that. I'll have to look. I got this ticket as insurance. :-) I won't give this to anyone who bashed the band or LGBT rights FYI.
PM me with proof that you had NC tix and the reason why you should get the free ticket. I'll pick tomorrow.
Much love to all!
EDIT: I can mail the hard copy ticket to the winner ASAP via UPS or some kind of traceable carrier. Also, please please please remember these aren't ten club seats. They are decent seats but they aren't TC. I just don't want anyone to miss that part and then be disappointed.
I'm not lost, but I don't know where I am...David Byrne, Talking Heads
This band is just not as informed as they think they are and perhaps not as genuine in their beliefs
My wife and I are activists here in Raleigh. Hers is her career. We are talking ground floor level. We each have different primary causes but the progressive community as a whole supports each other. We have had some success but have lost fights too. If pj did their homework, they would have understood that this was not one of the better options in trying to repeal the law.
Moreover, the band just reeks of being hypocrites and grandstanding for publicity. The hb2 bill is bad and people on this board (even those in favor of pj cancelling) don't appear to understand how bad of a bill it is. It's disgusting. From a civil rights standpoint, the right to vote is also an incredibly important civil liberty in a democracy. The voter id laws in many of our states coupled with county and local level policies like closing all the dmvs in poor communities has resulted in essentially disenfranchising voters in poor communities, especially poor minority voters. These laws are major civil rights violations. And they are happening in plenty of states Pearl jam has played in like Virginia and Florida or will play in the future. Pj please cancel shows in places with bad voter id laws too. Be consistent.
I find it repulsive too that you are condemning a state where the biggest city actually was pro active in making a progressive law that helps lgbt community as opposed to the cities that have voted against it like Houston. Charlotte may have forced the states hand and created a situation where lgbt becomes a protected class by the Supreme Court but thanks for punishing the great people of the state trying to make a difference in advancing the rights of LGBT among other things.
Besides plenty of other hypocrisies such as the recent chile shows despite their detestable laws, let's not forget eddies support of Nader in the 2000 election. If not for Nader, that presidential election swings the other way and we likely have a Supreme Court that would have been far more favorable for civil rights then we have had. This all makes me think this cancellation was not genuine. It was a copout publicity move. The real move. The real protest. The real courage is playing a show and donating proceeds. If you don't feel like being so charitable, I understand. But then at least cancel with reasonable notice. But to do it like this and writing that garbage letter, you are out of touch with making real change (or you don't truly believe in it). It's just grandstanding without moving the dial at all. I'm very disappointed you decided this was the best course of action. Although I will always love your music, I have no respect for your political stances and supposed activism anymore. Next time I see you play, if there is any political rant, count me as one of those that will think shut up and just play. Before I respected the ramblings. Now I know it's a joke. Excuse me for typos as I writing this from a phone.
So, November 2013 I traveled to see the band play Portland, Oregon. Oregon, the state in which January of that year a baker refused to bake a wedding cake for a gay couple. Why was there no cancellation of the show? I'm not saying this is apples to apples but...it's also a situation that involves discrimination
Sweet! I can change my flight out of LA to Charleston into Charlotte instead for only an extra 60,000 miles...way to wait until 2 days before the concert - PJ Mgmt. Here's how it probably played out, white guy to richer white guy, "We can't let all the local businesses get screwed in the process of making a statement...well then, cancel late, everyone talks about it, and all the business get to keep the money of the fans as will be past cancelation time. Brilliant." Way to stick it to that HB2 law. #FANGATE And to think it would have been my friend's PJ concert cherry. This one stings. And I have a trans friend.
Don't complain too much though. Apparently if you have an opinion other than "Pearl Jam is awesome and I agree with everything they do," the powers that be around here will close down the thread, as they already have in a different thread about the same topic.
Hey admin... being critical of a decision the band made that had significant financial ramifications to thousands of fans isn't being disrespectful, it's simply stating an opinion. Isn't that why we're on here in the first place? I'm choking on the irony over here. Who's really shown a lack of respect? It's not the diehard fans, that's for damn sure.
"We had to make a real tough call and um, we had to make a call about what we would do about the situation in North Carolina. (crowd cheers and some boos). Because they have a law there that broadly…broadly discriminates against a whole group of people. And I can’t tell from here if you are booing North Carolina if your booing us for having to decide that we are not gonna play there. I would understand that too. It was a hard process because we thought we could still play and make things right and we could fortify all the people on the ground working to repeal this despicable law. We thought we could take the money and give it to them and still play the show but the reality is there is nothing like the immense power like boycotting and putting a strain and it’s a shame because people are going to affected that don’t deserve it but it could be the way that ultimately is gonna effect change so again, we just couldn’t find it in ourselves in good conscience to cross a picket line when there was a movement so… So we apologize to those in Raleigh, we apologize to those who are going to Raleigh, we apologize to the locals who probably believe in the same things that we do. They have a reason to be pissed and were pissed off too. But we gotta be pissed off at the right people and get them to change their minds because they made a mistake, a big mistake and they can fix it. So tonight we play this one for all the soldiers in the LGBT community.")
Pearl jam are hypocrites...shut this opinion down admin!!!!! Screw fans over by turning away fans...cancel the rest of the tour...every city has issues that violate rights...shut down Chicago and their violent crime rate and democratic fraud..oh wait it's not a Republican problem so you won't...grow a sack..cancel the entire tour!! You just profited off Florida which blows Carolina in issues but because Bruce didn't do it you couldn't ride that coattail???
Pearl Jam's lives may not revolve around the fans but after years of reading these boards it seems to be that a lot of fans lives revolve around Pearl Jam. Is the joy and $$$ lost by say even a few thousand fans who would have attended the show not as important as a political statement that may or may not make a difference?
So, November 2013 I traveled to see the band play Portland, Oregon. Oregon, the state in which January of that year a baker refused to bake a wedding cake for a gay couple. Why was there no cancellation of the show? I'm not saying this is apples to apples but...it's also a situation that involves discrimination
Well the obvious difference there was there wasn't a local law that bakers couldn't bake cakes for gay people. You are talking about a one off business who decided to bask in attitudes that belong in the dark ages ... Not local government.
I totally understand and support this decision, but why did they wait so long? I had it all planned for weeks. Celebrate my 20 years clean by seeing PJ for the first time on 420 honoring their 25 years. I was going to fly in to Raleigh on 420 to attend my first ever show (I'm a lifelong fan from day 1 but the timing never worked out for me for the first 25 years...using, then rehab, then life and growing up got in the way), then rent a car and drive to Columbia, SC for the 4/21 show then home on 4/22. This announcement is so late the change fees and rescheduled flight to just do Columbia on 4/21 is now exorbitant. I can't afford the changes so I still need to fly to Raleigh and rent the car on 420. I'll do my best only supporting LGBT friendly businesses in the process. I hope PJ "repays' us by coming back when the law changes and offers first tickets to the ticket holding fans that missed this show. Very easily done through the 10 Club. They already have my email and credit card info. Still can't wait for 4/21 and I'll also be at MSG in NYC on 5/1. To reiterate and emphasize, I totally support this decision!!! Protests suck when they affect you personally but this is not about me. That law has to go along with it's supporters! PS, does anyone know if The Pit in Raleigh is LBGT friendly and how do I get a poster for the show that never was? I'll overpay for the poster so the excess proceeds can be donated to fight this despicable law!
PS, I'm straight but I bought Gay Pride shirts to wear while I was in Raleigh. I'm still looking forward to seeing my buddy's face when I give him his shirt to wear.
I'm not sure how I'd be feeling about this band had this been the one show I'd chosen to travel to the US to see. Standing up against social injustice is very much the fabric of Pearl Jam, but hand in hand with that is the live show experience. It's a conflicting and brave move for sure. My worry is its likely to do more harm to the fans than good to those suffering under this law...but end of the day it's their band, they can do what they want with it.
Perhaps there will be some new politically charged music on the next album...rather than another country filler.
For my LGBT family these words by Pearl Jam have brought comfort and courage in a difficult time - "The HB2 law that was recently passed is a despicable piece of legislation that encourages discrimination against an entire group of American citizens. The practical implications are expansive and its negative impact upon basic human rights is profound. We want America to be a place where no one can be turned away from a business because of who they love or fired from their job for who they are."
North Carolina's #HB2 is part of an unsettling trend. Brynn Tannehill writes in HuffPo, "Across the country, laws making it impossible to get accurate identification, to safely use bathrooms, laws nullifying protections, and most of all laws targeting the safety and well-being of transgender children are being heard, and passed, by legislatures. They are part of a well-funded, well-orchestrated attempt by the Family Research Council, Liberty Counsel, and Alliance Defending Freedom to erase transgender people from American life."
People saying they could have still played the gig and brought attention to this terrible situation are failing to realise that they've already brought more attention to it than any of Eddie's mid-set speeches would do.
That said, I'm speaking as a fan that didn't book a flight from the UK to Raleigh to see them and isn't out the £600 I'm instead spending to see them in Boston. This situation is not a recent one and they should have given far more warning. (EDIT: Just took a part about not even announcing the show out - didn't realise how recent HB2's passing was).
But people questioning the band's true motives and calling them hypocrites might need to cool off. I've seen some very interesting arguments here, especially from street level activists, but that's what you are - street level. You're doing incredible work but PJ are operating on a world stage which means they don't always get to be the most informed opposing party. It reminds me of criticisms of Eddie's anti-war rant at Milton Keynes in 2014, to which he replied he may well be naive, but he'd rather be an idealist than accept the world as it is.
Should they be doing more? Quite possibly. I would love to see them still come to the city/state and play a protest gig outside where they can be heard. But I can see how they arrived at their decision with the best intentions at heart and the sincere regret for fans that are getting screwed over. They're Howard Zinn followers and are trying to do that legacy proud on a scale that Zinn himself wouldn't have been used to. No one's perfect.
OH and people telling them to 'shut up and sing' or asking why they're getting involved in a fight that isn't theirs... I don't understand how you've been a fan of this band for so long and no identified this kind of work as a defining part of their DNA. It makes me proud to support them.
Post edited by Electro_UK on
"Hey Eddie, great show-- fuck you!" PJ - London 25/6/10, Manchester 20/6/12 + 21/6/12, Isle of Wight 23/6/12, Seattle 6/12/13, Leeds 8/7/14, Milton Keynes 11/7/14, Boston 5/8/16 + 7/8/16 Ed - London 31/7/12, Amsterdam 27/5/17 + 30/5/17, London 6/6/17 + 7/6/17
People saying they could have still played the gig and brought attention to this terrible situation are failing to realise that they've already brought more attention to it than any of Eddie's mid-set speeches would do.
People defending this action as being the best or only choice in the matter are failing to realise that they could have brought as much attention to it by not screwing paying/traveling fans and protest in another productive way. They will get a few news articles out of it. That will disappear. Won't change or affect anything to make it a better choice than to honor people who have bought tickets and traveled far. They could get as much or more media protesting in another way.
But yeah, the whole situation is sad.
Post edited by Spiritual_Chaos on
"Mostly I think that people react sensitively because they know you’ve got a point"
PJ's protest, activism, call to action is not their silence... BUT THEIR MUSIC! Having a night free of shame for the world, that we have helped to create and sustain, by jamming at a PJ concert would have been awesome. Music, it's used as a source of entertainment or escape from the daily grind of life. Music, has helped many through hard times, depression, anger, confusion and loneliness. Music, it has brought people, generations, strangers and long time friends together for shared experiences of happiness, love and communication. We are all missing out on more than just seeing PJ play live. We are missing out on the feelings of belonging, being accepted, being apart of a community. Missing out on creating special, life long memories with our loved ones, friends and even the new people we would have definitely met. I can put a PJ song on anytime. I can watch a concert they have performed anywhere in the world with YouTube. But what I can't get back, is the feeling I get when I feel like I'm a part of something fun, special, memorable. And thats what I'm missing with the cancelation of the 4/20 show and the inability to financially afford a different state to take my oldest son (17 yrs old) to see one of his favorite band. Another band, Leftöver Crack, is playing Durham in June. Want to talk about music that brings to light the world of corruption, deception and hate in our government, they do a fantastic job. And like PJ, it's their music that's the protest, not their science.
People saying they could have still played the gig and brought attention to this terrible situation are failing to realise that they've already brought more attention to it than any of Eddie's mid-set speeches would do.
People defending this action as being the best or only choice in the matter are failing to realise that they could have brought as much attention to it by not screwing paying/traveling fans and protest in another productive way. They will get a few news articles out of it. That will disappear. Won't change or affect anything to make it a better choice than to honor people who have bought tickets and traveled far. They could get as much or more media protesting in another way.
But yeah, the whole situation is sad.
They are missing the fact that the organizations that PJ listed as supporting have specifically asked performers and artists to NOT cancel. So they are literally doing the opposite of what LBGTQ leaders in North Carolina wanted.
PJ's protest, activism, call to action is not their silence... BUT THEIR MUSIC! Having a night free of shame for the world, that we have helped to create and sustain, by jamming at a PJ concert would have been awesome. Music, it's used as a source of entertainment or escape from the daily grind of life. Music, has helped many through hard times, depression, anger, confusion and loneliness. Music, it has brought people, generations, strangers and long time friends together for shared experiences of happiness, love and communication. We are all missing out on more than just seeing PJ play live. We are missing out on the feelings of belonging, being accepted, being apart of a community. Missing out on creating special, life long memories with our loved ones, friends and even the new people we would have definitely met. I can put a PJ song on anytime. I can watch a concert they have performed anywhere in the world with YouTube. But what I can't get back, is the feeling I get when I feel like I'm a part of something fun, special, memorable. And thats what I'm missing with the cancelation of the 4/20 show and the inability to financially afford a different state to take my oldest son (17 yrs old) to see one of his favorite band. Another band, Leftöver Crack, is playing Durham in June. Want to talk about music that brings to light the world of corruption, deception and hate in our government, they do a fantastic job. And like PJ, it's their music that's the protest, not their silence.
PJ, you guys wouldn't be a nation's all time favorite band and group to look up to if it weren't for your tenacious involvement in movements and fundraising. Ever since Mookie Blaylock days you have proven time and time again that finances would never be a driving force for your band, but rather morals and principle. You guys are stand up men that raise money and awareness for various foundations, both as a group and individually...I could go on about how much I respect you and why. Instead, I will beg and plead for you all to see this Raleigh concert as an opportunity to voice your concerns with the legislation.
I live in NC and have to deal with the ignorant comments people have been making in regards to the HB2 laws, however a lot of it has to do with people not understanding the law or taking the time to research it. This is where you guys can come in. Use your stage as your political platform to explain the implications and explain why NC citizens should be protesting against it with you. We can organize stations to sign petitions before, during and after the show. Do the Evolution, sing your songs and educate people, encouraging them to get up and do what they can to better their community.
You are the best voice to give the suppressed LGBT community, and all populations for that matter, so use it and do more than just boycott NC...teach these Bu$hleaguers the facts, not shown on FOX, and you will see thatthey some of them have a heart and would fight for humanity if they knew why and how. If there is anyone who can do such it is you, Eddie, Mike, Jeff, Stone, Matt and Boom. If you can be this relevant after 25 years of powerful music, then you can help drive some change. Regardless, thank you so much for everything. You give your fans your all in every show and you care deeper for mankind than any other rock band. Keep being awesome, your fans love you.
Off cousre it sucks if you already spend money. And perhaps there were better options. I take it they didn't make this decision lightly and gave it the proper consideration. Maybe they could have done something differently or announced sooner than they did, but cancelling is a way to do it as well.
I hope there aren't poeple calling Pearl Jam hypocrites, because they are fueled with disappointment. In any case I find it strange to find so much anger on this threat. Perhaps there were better tactics, but at least they took a stand.
It's not who I am underneath, but what I do that defines me.
Since I cannot afford to buy 2 new tickets for my son and I, then travel out of state. Which would require taking more time off work (unpaid), gas, lodging, etc. I'm sad because Pearl Jam cancelled the show that I had specifically bought a subscription to PJ10 to, so I could ultimately win, in the lottery, GA tickets to take my 17 yr old, music loving, straight A, helpful, respectful, different, non- conformist, job holding, not blinded by the National idea of contentment, lead singing/guitar playing in a band son to as a Christmas present. Even though he prefers punk music, Pearl Jam has played a bigger part in his development as a musician and as a human I'm proud to call my son. We are both sad at the missed experience and memories this show would have created. (I took him to the Atlanta music festival in 2013 to see Pearl Jam) I do not support this policy, or any others, that discriminate against my neighbors. It is a law meant to repress the people and grab power away from the local leaders by the power/money hungry elite that are destroying this state and world. But, with that being said, VA, Florida, Louisiana, Tennessee, Kentucky, South America all have laws that discriminate against the minority with policies much worse than the one NC passed. Yet they are still going to tour to those states. Is it because we are a nation/people with such a 'I want it now', 'what's going on now', 'me-now me-now' mentality and short term memory, that since the NC law has been in the news lately (and is still a new policy with a high chance of being repealed) that they are willing to cancel their tour in NC yet not the other states that have equally (if not worse) discriminating policies/laws, and for a longer period of time? I'm just curious for thoughts. And thanks Pearl Jam, for wanting better for us all. Once I get over my (selfish) sadness for the missed experience and memories with my oldest son, I know I will feel less ashamed and less fear (if even for a moment) for the world I am leaving my kids because you have reinforced the same ideas I have tried to teach/show my kids. My son and I will miss you on 4/20. One person can change the world, unfortunately I (we) weren't fast enough creating that change for you. The bill is being taken to court, it's just a slow system. It'll happen though. Hope to see you play music sometime soon.
People saying they could have still played the gig and brought attention to this terrible situation are failing to realise that they've already brought more attention to it than any of Eddie's mid-set speeches would do.
People defending this action as being the best or only choice in the matter are failing to realise that they could have brought as much attention to it by not screwing paying/traveling fans and protest in another productive way. They will get a few news articles out of it. That will disappear. Won't change or affect anything to make it a better choice than to honor people who have bought tickets and traveled far. They could get as much or more media protesting in another way.
But yeah, the whole situation is sad.
Yeah, I agree with you for the most part. I'm not saying it was the best course of action, but a better one than the usual gig with Eddie getting fired up, I believe. Like I say, I'd have loved to have seen a protest gig orchestrated outside or something - perhaps a collab between PJ, Springsteen and Ringo Starr.
"Hey Eddie, great show-- fuck you!" PJ - London 25/6/10, Manchester 20/6/12 + 21/6/12, Isle of Wight 23/6/12, Seattle 6/12/13, Leeds 8/7/14, Milton Keynes 11/7/14, Boston 5/8/16 + 7/8/16 Ed - London 31/7/12, Amsterdam 27/5/17 + 30/5/17, London 6/6/17 + 7/6/17
1.should pj do something about that law and fight for something isnt right?? For sure they should and proud to be a fan of a band raise their voice for the greatest good For pj are in the right side of this.
2.what they should do??cancel the show makes alot more noise i guess than just say sonething on stage..i dont know if was the right call to make..its their call..i respect it but personally i would prefer they show up and raise hell against the law .make fun of the giverment there..make something and all media next day would talk about it
3.timing For sure is wrong 2 days before date..alot of fans will lose alot of money..no need to mention except money so many people will be sad cos they waiting for the show for months What is weird is they did exactly what bruce..2 days before date..maybe has to do with legal matters of their contracts of the show..i dont know..
Im thinking for exable except the statement of the cancelation someone from the band lets say at 10c radio give an interview and explain their whole thinking about it and say things and explain to the fans.i think would be cool from their part and fans will apreciate it
I hope they do something cool for everyone has tix and not only the refound..maybe sent them something alot of people are angry and sad..i travel to see the band. Always..i was there at Venice -Italy 07 when they cancel the show cos of the stage destroyed..wasnt their call or fault .was safety but i understand the feeling be at venue and a few hours before show they tell u the show is cancel Im sorry for fellow fans was going to that show..i can understand being upset. i hope somehow u get something special in return
"...Dimitri...He talks to me...'.."The Ghost of Greece..".
"..That's One Happy Fuckin Ghost.."
“..That came up on the Pillow Case...This is for the Greek, With Our Apologies.....”
Comments
Boston 10/17/10, East Troy 9/3/11, East Troy 9/4/11, Missoula 9/30/12, Worcester 10/15/13, Hartford 10/25/13, Charlottesville 10/29/13,
St. Paul 10/19/14, New York 9/26/15, Quebec City 5/5/16, Boston 8/5/16, Boston 9/2/18, Boston 9/4/18, Quebec City 9/1/22, Camden 9/14/22, Oklahoma City 9/20/22
2000: Pitt
2003: Pitt, State College, Columbus,DC, Hershey
2004: Reading, Toledo, DC
2005: Pitt
2006: Cleve, Camden 1+2, DC, Pitt, Cinci
2008: Camden 1+2, DC
2009: Philly 3
2010: Columbus
2012: Philly
2013: Pitt, NYC 1+2
PM me with proof that you had NC tix and the reason why you should get the free ticket. I'll pick tomorrow.
Much love to all!
EDIT: I can mail the hard copy ticket to the winner ASAP via UPS or some kind of traceable carrier. Also, please please please remember these aren't ten club seats. They are decent seats but they aren't TC. I just don't want anyone to miss that part and then be disappointed.
Regal Theater, 1994--most amazing night ever.
My wife and I are activists here in Raleigh. Hers is her career. We are talking ground floor level. We each have different primary causes but the progressive community as a whole supports each other. We have had some success but have lost fights too. If pj did their homework, they would have understood that this was not one of the better options in trying to repeal the law.
Moreover, the band just reeks of being hypocrites and grandstanding for publicity. The hb2 bill is bad and people on this board (even those in favor of pj cancelling) don't appear to understand how bad of a bill it is. It's disgusting. From a civil rights standpoint, the right to vote is also an incredibly important civil liberty in a democracy. The voter id laws in many of our states coupled with county and local level policies like closing all the dmvs in poor communities has resulted in essentially disenfranchising voters in poor communities, especially poor minority voters. These laws are major civil rights violations. And they are happening in plenty of states Pearl jam has played in like Virginia and Florida or will play in the future. Pj please cancel shows in places with bad voter id laws too. Be consistent.
I find it repulsive too that you are condemning a state where the biggest city actually was pro active in making a progressive law that helps lgbt community as opposed to the cities that have voted against it like Houston. Charlotte may have forced the states hand and created a situation where lgbt becomes a protected class by the Supreme Court but thanks for punishing the great people of the state trying to make a difference in advancing the rights of LGBT among other things.
Besides plenty of other hypocrisies such as the recent chile shows despite their detestable laws, let's not forget eddies support of Nader in the 2000 election. If not for Nader, that presidential election swings the other way and we likely have a Supreme Court that would have been far more favorable for civil rights then we have had. This all makes me think this cancellation was not genuine. It was a copout publicity move. The real move. The real protest. The real courage is playing a show and donating proceeds. If you don't feel like being so charitable, I understand. But then at least cancel with reasonable notice. But to do it like this and writing that garbage letter, you are out of touch with making real change (or you don't truly believe in it). It's just grandstanding without moving the dial at all. I'm very disappointed you decided this was the best course of action. Although I will always love your music, I have no respect for your political stances and supposed activism anymore. Next time I see you play, if there is any political rant, count me as one of those that will think shut up and just play. Before I respected the ramblings. Now I know it's a joke. Excuse me for typos as I writing this from a phone.
Hey admin... being critical of a decision the band made that had significant financial ramifications to thousands of fans isn't being disrespectful, it's simply stating an opinion. Isn't that why we're on here in the first place? I'm choking on the irony over here. Who's really shown a lack of respect? It's not the diehard fans, that's for damn sure.
"We had to make a real tough call and um, we had to make a call about what we would do about the situation in North Carolina. (crowd cheers and some boos). Because they have a law there that broadly…broadly discriminates against a whole group of people. And I can’t tell from here if you are booing North Carolina if your booing us for having to decide that we are not gonna play there. I would understand that too.
It was a hard process because we thought we could still play and make things right and we could fortify all the people on the ground working to repeal this despicable law. We thought we could take the money and give it to them and still play the show but the reality is there is nothing like the immense power like boycotting and putting a strain and it’s a shame because people are going to affected that don’t deserve it but it could be the way that ultimately is gonna effect change so again, we just couldn’t find it in ourselves in good conscience to cross a picket line when there was a movement so…
So we apologize to those in Raleigh, we apologize to those who are going to Raleigh, we apologize to the locals who probably believe in the same things that we do. They have a reason to be pissed and were pissed off too. But we gotta be pissed off at the right people and get them to change their minds because they made a mistake, a big mistake and they can fix it.
So tonight we play this one for all the soldiers in the LGBT community.")
You just profited off Florida which blows Carolina in issues but because Bruce didn't do it you couldn't ride that coattail???
Pearl Jam's lives may not revolve around the fans but after years of reading these boards it seems to be that a lot of fans lives revolve around Pearl Jam. Is the joy and $$$ lost by say even a few thousand fans who would have attended the show not as important as a political statement that may or may not make a difference?
Tough call.
Perhaps there will be some new politically charged music on the next album...rather than another country filler.
North Carolina's #HB2 is part of an unsettling trend. Brynn Tannehill writes in HuffPo, "Across the country, laws making it impossible to get accurate identification, to safely use bathrooms, laws nullifying protections, and most of all laws targeting the safety and well-being of transgender children are being heard, and passed, by legislatures. They are part of a well-funded, well-orchestrated attempt by the Family Research Council, Liberty Counsel, and Alliance Defending Freedom to erase transgender people from American life."
Much more on this at : http://www.huffingtonpost.com/brynn-tannehill/and-then-they-came-for-tr_b_9258678.html
That said, I'm speaking as a fan that didn't book a flight from the UK to Raleigh to see them and isn't out the £600 I'm instead spending to see them in Boston. This situation is not a recent one and they should have given far more warning. (EDIT: Just took a part about not even announcing the show out - didn't realise how recent HB2's passing was).
But people questioning the band's true motives and calling them hypocrites might need to cool off. I've seen some very interesting arguments here, especially from street level activists, but that's what you are - street level. You're doing incredible work but PJ are operating on a world stage which means they don't always get to be the most informed opposing party. It reminds me of criticisms of Eddie's anti-war rant at Milton Keynes in 2014, to which he replied he may well be naive, but he'd rather be an idealist than accept the world as it is.
Should they be doing more? Quite possibly. I would love to see them still come to the city/state and play a protest gig outside where they can be heard. But I can see how they arrived at their decision with the best intentions at heart and the sincere regret for fans that are getting screwed over. They're Howard Zinn followers and are trying to do that legacy proud on a scale that Zinn himself wouldn't have been used to. No one's perfect.
OH and people telling them to 'shut up and sing' or asking why they're getting involved in a fight that isn't theirs... I don't understand how you've been a fan of this band for so long and no identified this kind of work as a defining part of their DNA. It makes me proud to support them.
PJ - London 25/6/10, Manchester 20/6/12 + 21/6/12, Isle of Wight 23/6/12, Seattle 6/12/13, Leeds 8/7/14, Milton Keynes 11/7/14, Boston 5/8/16 + 7/8/16
Ed - London 31/7/12, Amsterdam 27/5/17 + 30/5/17, London 6/6/17 + 7/6/17
But yeah, the whole situation is sad.
I live in NC and have to deal with the ignorant comments people have been making in regards to the HB2 laws, however a lot of it has to do with people not understanding the law or taking the time to research it. This is where you guys can come in. Use your stage as your political platform to explain the implications and explain why NC citizens should be protesting against it with you. We can organize stations to sign petitions before, during and after the show. Do the Evolution, sing your songs and educate people, encouraging them to get up and do what they can to better their community.
You are the best voice to give the suppressed LGBT community, and all populations for that matter, so use it and do more than just boycott NC...teach these Bu$hleaguers the facts, not shown on FOX, and you will see that
theysome of them have a heart and would fight for humanity if they knew why and how. If there is anyone who can do such it is you, Eddie, Mike, Jeff, Stone, Matt and Boom. If you can be this relevant after 25 years of powerful music, then you can help drive some change. Regardless, thank you so much for everything. You give your fans your all in every show and you care deeper for mankind than any other rock band. Keep being awesome, your fans love you.I take it they didn't make this decision lightly and gave it the proper consideration.
Maybe they could have done something differently or announced sooner than they did, but cancelling is a way to do it as well.
I hope there aren't poeple calling Pearl Jam hypocrites, because they are fueled with disappointment. In any case I find it strange to find so much anger on this threat.
Perhaps there were better tactics, but at least they took a stand.
2006 Arnhem 2007 Werchter 2009 Rotterdam 2010 Nijmegen 2010 Werchter
2012 Amsterdam 1 2012 Amsterdam 2 2014 Amsterdam 1 2014 Amsterdam 2
2014 Berlijn
I do not support this policy, or any others, that discriminate against my neighbors. It is a law meant to repress the people and grab power away from the local leaders by the power/money hungry elite that are destroying this state and world. But, with that being said, VA, Florida, Louisiana, Tennessee, Kentucky, South America all have laws that discriminate against the minority with policies much worse than the one NC passed. Yet they are still going to tour to those states. Is it because we are a nation/people with such a 'I want it now', 'what's going on now', 'me-now me-now' mentality and short term memory, that since the NC law has been in the news lately (and is still a new policy with a high chance of being repealed) that they are willing to cancel their tour in NC yet not the other states that have equally (if not worse) discriminating policies/laws, and for a longer period of time? I'm just curious for thoughts. And thanks Pearl Jam, for wanting better for us all. Once I get over my (selfish) sadness for the missed experience and memories with my oldest son, I know I will feel less ashamed and less fear (if even for a moment) for the world I am leaving my kids because you have reinforced the same ideas I have tried to teach/show my kids.
My son and I will miss you on 4/20.
One person can change the world, unfortunately I (we) weren't fast enough creating that change for you. The bill is being taken to court, it's just a slow system. It'll happen though. Hope to see you play music sometime soon.
PJ - London 25/6/10, Manchester 20/6/12 + 21/6/12, Isle of Wight 23/6/12, Seattle 6/12/13, Leeds 8/7/14, Milton Keynes 11/7/14, Boston 5/8/16 + 7/8/16
Ed - London 31/7/12, Amsterdam 27/5/17 + 30/5/17, London 6/6/17 + 7/6/17
I am a bigger fan now than I have ever been.
1.should pj do something about that law and fight for something isnt right??
For sure they should and proud to be a fan of a band raise their voice for the greatest good
For pj are in the right side of this.
2.what they should do??cancel the show makes alot more noise i guess than just say sonething on stage..i dont know if was the right call to make..its their call..i respect it but personally i would prefer they show up and raise hell against the law .make fun of the giverment there..make something and all media next day would talk about it
3.timing
For sure is wrong 2 days before date..alot of fans will lose alot of money..no need to mention except money so many people will be sad cos they waiting for the show for months
What is weird is they did exactly what bruce..2 days before date..maybe has to do with legal matters of their contracts of the show..i dont know..
Im thinking for exable except the statement of the cancelation someone from the band lets say at 10c radio give an interview and explain their whole thinking about it and say things and explain to the fans.i think would be cool from their part and fans will apreciate it
I hope they do something cool for everyone has tix and not only the refound..maybe sent them something alot of people are angry and sad..i travel to see the band. Always..i was there at Venice -Italy 07 when they cancel the show cos of the stage destroyed..wasnt their call or fault .was safety but i understand the feeling be at venue and a few hours before show they tell u the show is cancel
Im sorry for fellow fans was going to that show..i can understand being upset.
i hope somehow u get something special in return
"..That's One Happy Fuckin Ghost.."
“..That came up on the Pillow Case...This is for the Greek, With Our Apologies.....”
But ultimately, I defer to the band and stand by their decision.