John Cooper, the frontman of the rock band Skillet, has voiced his preference for not lecturing fans on political matters during live performances. Cooper discussed the risks associated with entertainers engaging in political commentary, particularly during concerts, in an appearance on OutKick's "Tomi Lahren is Fearless."
Cooper acknowledged that while entertainers on the left may receive praise from "institutional powers" for their political statements, there are still risks involved, including alienating some fans. However, he also understands the sentiment of audiences who attend concerts primarily for the music and do not wish to be subjected to political lectures.
"I agree with people when they're like, I don't want to see some actor come up and yell at me about Iran or whatever they're on about; I don't even know if they even know what they're talking about, you know?" Cooper stated. He specifically referenced Bruce Springsteen's mid-concert political commentary, noting that while Springsteen is a highly regarded songwriter, the persistent political diatribes can become "exhausting."
"The Boss is amazing," Cooper said of Springsteen. "One of the greatest songwriters, certainly, of (his) generation, and I still listen to him. But I'm like, 'I don't want people to feel that way about me.' I know some people do, but I'm trying to stay in my lane as best as I can."
Cooper's comments align with a sentiment that some fans find political activism from musicians during concerts to be a distraction from the primary purpose of the event, which is the music itself. He contrasted this approach with that of artists who consistently integrate political messages into their performances.