Black Rebel Motorcycle Club Done All Wrong
Black Rebel Motorcycle Club (BRMC) is an American rock band, consisting of Peter Hayes on vocals, guitar, and harmonica; Robert Levon Been on vocals, bass, and guitar; and Leah Shapiro on drums. The band was formed in San Francisco in 1998 and has since released eight studio albums, with their latest being "Wrong Creatures" in 2018. However, despite their success, many believe that BRMC has done all wrong, and here's why.
Their Name and Image
BRMC's name and image scream rebellion and biker culture, which is problematic for many reasons. Biker culture is often associated with violence, misogyny, and a lack of regard for the law. By adopting this image, BRMC is perpetuating these negative stereotypes and alienating many potential fans.
Their Music
BRMC's music is often described as "garage rock" or "blues rock" and is heavily influenced by bands like The Rolling Stones and The Velvet Underground. While this may sound like a winning combination, many critics argue that BRMC's music lacks originality and is too derivative of their influences. Additionally, their lyrics are often criticized for being too vague and lacking in substance.
Their Politics
BRMC's political views are often murky and unclear. While they have been known to take stances on issues like police brutality and gun control, they have also been accused of flirting with far-right ideologies. In a 2018 interview with The Independent, frontman Peter Hayes stated, "I don't know what the left or the right means anymore," which many found to be a troubling statement.
Their Treatment of Women
BRMC has been accused of misogyny and sexism in the past. In a 2007 interview with The Guardian, Hayes stated, "I'm not gonna say we're feminists or anything like that," and later went on to defend the band's use of scantily clad women in their music videos. Additionally, the band has been known to use derogatory language towards women in their lyrics.
Their Live Shows
BRMC's live shows are often criticized for being lackluster and unengaging. While their music may sound great on record, many fans have reported feeling disappointed by their live performances. Additionally, the band has been known to show up late to shows or cancel them altogether, which is a surefire way to alienate fans.
Conclusion
Despite their flaws, BRMC still has a dedicated fanbase and continues to tour and release music. However, it's important to acknowledge and critique the problematic aspects of their image, music, and politics. By doing so, we can hold them accountable and demand better from our favorite artists.
