The free speech rights of Eddie Vedder, an outspoken leader of the dwindling Grunge-American community were brutally trampled by New Yorkers in Uniondale who paid $60 to hear dated music about alienation but instead were forced to listen to the millionaire entertainer’s fringe political opinions about President Bush.
In response to the inane anti-Bush ditty, “Bushleaguer”, the fans attempted to overpower Vedder’s First Amendment rights with their own, according to the New York Times:
A number of formerly enthusiastic fans responded by making long, low noises that sounded a lot like "boo," and they weren't placated by the remarks that followed. "I don't understand," Mr. Vedder said. "Maybe you like him 'cause he's going to give you a tax cut." A number of people then chanted: "U.S.A.! U.S.A.!"
Finding himself outside the mainstream of even his flannel-shirted fan cohort Vedder attempted to reach a consensus with the audience through gentle, non-threatening diplomatic means using the universal language of peace . . . music.
A few people threw things, and the band played two more songs, ending with a cover of Neil Young's "Rockin' in the Free World." As the song faded out, Mr. Vedder reprised the crowd's chant — "U.S.A.! U.S.A.!" — sounding more defiant than conciliatory. Then he threw down the microphone and walked off.
You can order a recording of the show here. I prefer to wait for it to appear on KaZaA.
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