Free Republic

Sir Elton John wants religion banned completely – because he believes it promotes hatred of gays. Speaking to the Observer Music Monthly Magazine the singer said religion lacked compassion and turned people into “hateful lemmings". The PRESS ASSOCIATION reports: In a candid interview for a dedicated Gay issue of the magazine he shared his views on topics as varied as being a pop icon to Tony Blair’s stance on the war in Iraq. He said there was a lack of religious leadership, particularly in world politics, and complained that people do not take to the streets to protest any more....

A concert by Elton John has given Israelis a boost after a string of cancellations by other world-famous artists. [ snip ] John, who wore blue-tinted sunglasses, told the audience those cancellations "ain't gonna stop me from playing here, baby." Recent cancellations by the Pixies and Elvis Costello, who cited Israeli government policies, have added to Israel's growing sense of isolation. John swiped at those artists, saying, "We do not cherry-pick our consciences," ..... [ snip ]