Conor Oberst on SB1070 boycott: ‘An economic death rattle is all they will hear’
On June 24, The Arizona Republic published an open letter sent in by local promoter Charlie Levy and his response to the boycott Rage Against the Machine’s Zack de la Rocha rallied artist to join in opposition of immigration law SB1070.
Levy, owner of Stateside Presents argued, “The people who will feel the negative effects of the boycott the deepest are local concert venues, non-profit art-house theatres, independent promoters, fans and the people employed in the local music business.”
Conor Oberst (of Bright Eyes fame), joined de la Rocha, Nine Inch Nails, Kanye West, Sonic Youth, Ben Harper, Gogol Bordello, My Morning Jacket, and a growing list of artists refusing to perform in the state until the law is repealed.
On July 2, Oberst responded to Levy with an open letter in Billboard writing, “I realize that the people of Arizona did not vote on SB1070 and I empathize with the anger and frustration you all must feel. If I return to Arizona to pay lip service to a roomful of kids at the Marquee it will do absolutely no good for anyone.
“I personally regret any of the collateral damage the boycott is causing you, other like-minded arts promoters and the fans in Arizona. A boycott is, inherently, a blunt instrument. It is an imperfect weapon, a carpet bomb, when all involved would prefer a surgical strike.
“An economic death rattle is the only cry of outrage they will hear. The boycott has to be so widespread and devastating that the Arizona State Legislature and Governor have no choice but to repeal their unconstitutional, immoral and hateful law.”
Levy called the Oberst letter “well thought out” and said the artist made “valid points even though I respectfully disagree with some of his statements.
“I know members of the Arizona musical and creative communities are deeply appreciative of the attention artists across the country are paying to our concerns. I do hope we can work together, in some capacity, in the near future.”
For additional entertainment information please visit the Examiner.
