Even as a Canadian, I find it hard to talk about anything other than the US Election earlier this week and its shocking outcome. Initially, I’d hoped to talk about which artists supported which candidates over the course of their respective campaigns. Unfortunately, it would be an incredibly biased piece because the only recording artist who supported Trump was Ted Nugent, and I think if we’re honest with ourselves, Nugent is more of a gun lobbyist who can play guitar (no judgement).

The charge of angry musicians was led by Neil Young who expressed his anger and frustration over “Rockin’ in the Free World” being used during Trump’s presidential candidacy announcement. Later, R.E.M. refused to allow Trump’s campaign to use their music during rallies. The Rolling Stones followed suit after Trump walked out to “Start Me Up” after his Indiana primary victory. Green Day changed the lyrics of its “American Idiot” hit to diss Trump (“subliminal mind TRUMP America”). While Steven Tyler of Aerosmith actually attended a Trump rally, it might have been just to personally deliver the cease and desist order he issued to Trump for using “Dream On”.

Trump’s lack of respect for artist-owned property is likely what also put him on the hit-lists of Cher, Win Butler of Arcade Fire, Jack Black, Rage Against The Machine’s Tom Morello, Everlast and countless others. In fact, the election would have been a bloodbath with Hillary Clinton holding the knife had the voting public been limited to recording artists.

While Clinton did come to the table with years of experience, America wanted change. In the end, not even the endorsement from 5 former US Presidents and a carnival of performances from Bon Jovi, Springsteen, Madonna and Lady Gaga would be enough.

While I’m not a Trump fan; I’m not a Hillary Clinton fan either. I am however genuinely concerned with America’s trajectory and disappointed, not because of the outcome but because this was never an election about issues. It was a high school popularity contest; a race to the bottom. Trump was just the first to recognize it for what it was.

I feel like America is like that younger brother who’s partying a little too much. We’re not trying ruin his fun. We’re not trying to run his life. We’re not even pretending to know what’s best for him. We’re just worried about him and wish him the best. Good luck America!

Filed under: President, trump