In a recent interview with Rebellious Remarks, John Cooper of SKILLET discussed the importance of civil dialogue in a polarized world. He shared a personal experience where a fellow musician, a well-known rock DJ, refused to interact with him due to his political views.
“We’re not even worth talking to for some people,” Cooper lamented. “Those things are going away. The industry is taking longer to be inclusive than the fans.”
He compared the current climate to the rigid attitudes of Christian fundamentalists from decades ago. “Now we have secular fundamentalists,” he said. “They’re being the very people they would have hated 20 years ago.”
Cooper expressed hope that this trend will eventually change, fostering a more inclusive and open-minded music industry. He also emphasized the importance of fans and bands remaining united despite differing viewpoints.
“I believe that people from all walks of life can come together for civil dialogue and debate,” Cooper continued. “We need to bridge the divide and find common ground. It’s important to remember that we all share a common humanity, and we can achieve more together than we can alone.
“I’ve seen firsthand how music can bring people together, regardless of their backgrounds or beliefs. We need to embrace that power and use it to create a more positive and inclusive world.”
