Clapton and Communism
Rock icon Eric Clapton has been invited to play a concert in the North Korean capital Pyongyang, an official at the country's UK embassy has confirmed. If he accepts, the 62-year-old will become the first Western rock star to perform in the Communist country.
According to newspaper reports Clapton has agreed in principle to the concert, suggesting it takes place in 2009.
News of the invitation follows the New York Philharmonic Orchestra's landmark concert in the North Korean capital.
The North Korean State Symphony Orchestra is due to perform in the UK later this year.
According to embassy officials, an appearance by Clapton would be "a good opportunity for Western music to be understood better by Koreans".
A spokesman told the BBC the invitation had been received by the singer's management and brought to his attention.
The singer's management, however, would not confirm the approach.
Clapton is in New York this week, performing a series of concerts at Madison Square Garden with Steve Winwood.
Kim Jong Chol, the son of national leader Kim Jong Il, is said to be a Clapton fan.
Source: Ultimate Guitar
I'm a little torn on the idea, mainly because of the fact that Kim Jong Il has violated numerous human rights. On the other hand it would be nice to provide the citizens of North Korea with what is sure to be a pleasurable experience. Kim Jong Il is known for isolating his citizens who in turn are very out of touch with the outside world, and this is an opportunity for them to see an integral part of western culture. For me, the fact that North Korea is Communist country doesn't matter, the problem solely rests in the fact of the human rights violations.
So what does everyone else think about Clapton having the opportunity to play in North Korea?
posted by Jeff at 12:36 AM
4 Comments:
I think the idea of sending these "cultural envoys" is good. It is a door to change. However, I kinda feel bad that the people of North Korea are finally going to get to see a major rock show and it's gonna be Eric Crapton whose spent almost 40 years just playing crappy adult music. Eric Crapton doesn't have an ounce of soul left.
Bob - Good point about Clapton's music. Personally I haven't really liked any of his material since Cream, but none the less he is a great guitarist.
Not much of an envoy, is it? Ick.
It is a tension. Do you "honor" or even acknowledge the regime by doing this ... or do you, a la rock and roll in the USSR in the early to mid '80s, catalyze cultural change for political development? A tough call. I say go for it, Eric.
Post a Comment
<< Home