Jethro Tull front man apologises for flag remarks

Ananova ^ | 11/17/03

[Pokey78]

The frontman of Jethro Tull has apologised for remarks made in a newspaper interview that seemingly criticised displays of the American flag.

In a posting on Jethro Tull's Web site, Ian Anderson further explained what he meant when he told the Asbury Park Press newspaper in New Jersey that "I hate to see the American flag hanging out of every bloody station wagon, out of every SUV, every little Midwestern house in some residential area."

Anderson said his concern was not specifically displays of the US flag but "the flag-waving mind-set" across the world.

He said he regretted the tone of the statements and apologised for "any perceived slur on the Stars and Stripes."

"I really didn't understand - even after 35 years of visiting the USA on a regular basis - that this symbol had such fierce resonance for so many people, as is now apparent to me," Anderson said.

Anderson said he cannot support the international policies of current US and British administrations, but "I will always stand up to defend the honour and integrity of the American people, anytime, anywhere and in the face of anyone's criticism."

The story in the Asbury Park Press had prompted a local classic rock station to remove Jethro Tull from its playlist.

On Monday, WCHR-FM program director Phil LoCascio said the station took the step at the request of its audience and would leave any decision to restore the band to listeners as well.

[HAL9000]

I was surprised to see Tony Snow playing a flute duet with him last week.

[dirtboy]

Anderson said he cannot support the international policies of current US and British administrations, but "I will always stand up to defend the honour and integrity of the American people, anytime, anywhere and in the face of anyone's criticism."

Oh, go sing a duet with Natalie Maines and then you know just where you can stick that flute.

[theDentist]

Translation: "I'll lose how much money? Do I have to say 'Sorry'?"

[rs79bm]

"I really didn't understand - even after 35 years of visiting the USA on a regular basis - that this symbol had such fierce resonance for so many people, as is now apparent to me," Anderson said.

That's right. In other words you don't mess with the U.S.A.

[presidio9]

Jethro who?

[null and void]

He's never been very fond of excess nationalism/xenophobia/jingoism. I suspect some of this is WWII residoodoo.

Ever hear "Different Germany" on his solo album Walk into Light?

It's about the reincarnation of German nationalism:

"and what dark chill
is gathering still
before the storm..."

[dirtboy]

Translation: "I'll lose how much money? Do I have to say 'Sorry'?"

Well, I'll give him this much - unlike Natalie Maines, at least Anderson passed the brains test on this one.

[Cobra64]

"I really didn't understand - even after 35 years of visiting the USA on a regular basis - that this symbol had such fierce resonance for so many people, as is now apparent to me," Anderson said.

Doesn't this idiot understand something called "National Pride?"

The British were obsessed with their natioanl pride except for the last generation or two.

This dolt should go back to where he came from.

PS: this person better not show up on my property. I have a 26 foot flagpole in my front yard, a flag on my boat, and on my dock's gazebo.

[Tijeras_Slim]

"I really didn't understand - even after 35 years of visiting the USA on a regular basis - that this symbol had such fierce resonance for so many people, as is now apparent to me," Anderson said.

Quit vacationing in the blue zone, jagoff.

[T Lady]

Boy! Talk about back-peddling! Anderson was doing the backstroke faster than Mark Spitz. His band mates and manger must of jumped on his case big time.

-Regards, T.

[squidly]

Why apologize? That band doesn't have a career left to protect.

[whereasandsoforth]

It must be hell to be that old and clueless.

[Batrachian]

Ian Anderson further explained what he meant when he told the Asbury Park Press newspaper in New Jersey that "I hate to see the American flag..."

The rest of the statement doesn't matter. This is what he was trying to get across to us.

Get stuffed, Ian. Apology not accepted.

[AmericaUnited]

Anderson said he cannot support the international policies of current US and British administrations, but "I will always stand up to defend the honour and integrity of the American people's MONEY, anytime, anywhere and in the face of anyone's criticism."

[Jack Wilson]

He's thick as a brick...

[Ditto]

"I really didn't understand - even after 35 years of visiting the USA on a regular basis - that this symbol had such fierce resonance for so many people, as is now apparent to me," Anderson said.

I doubt this pampered a--hole ever could understand what it means. He's too damn filled with himself to think about others.

But thankfully for him, these guys understood.

[sushiman]

"I will always stand up to defend the honour and integrity of the American people, anytime, anywhere and in the face of anyone's criticism."

That's right Ian ...remember ...the Americans are the ones who made you a multi-millionaire .

[ibbryn]

So what's wrong with accepting this guy's apology. Seems he was rather straigth forward about it. He says he didn't understand and he's sorry.

I still don't agree with what he said, but let him admit he goofed and move on.

[Voltage]

What a worthless excuse.

Would it be so hard to say: "I was wrong and I am sorry"?