Hoodoo Gurus Condemn Use of Song at Anti-Immigration Rally
A song by Australian rock band Hoodoo Gurus was controversially used at an anti-immigration rally on Australia Day. The band subsequently issued a strong statement condemning this use and unequivocally disassociating themselves from the political group involved.
Incident Details
On Australia Day, January 26, the Hoodoo Gurus' iconic 1987 song "What's My Scene?" was played as Senator Pauline Hanson arrived on stage. This occurred during a 'March for Australia' rally held in Brisbane, an event that advocates anti-immigration views.
Band's Swift Condemnation
Upon learning of the incident, Hoodoo Gurus member Dave Faulkner expressed that the band was "horrified." They promptly released a social media statement voicing their disgust with the song's use by One Nation, a party they referred to as "wannabe fascists."
The statement made it clear that the band opposes Pauline Hanson's views and explicitly requested that One Nation and its supporters refrain from playing or listening to their music.
"We want nothing to do with you."
Faulkner confirmed he authored the statement as a direct response to the news, emphasizing the band's desire to prevent their work from being associated with messages they do not endorse.
Legal "Grey Area" of Music Use
Faulkner described the use of music at rallies as a legal "grey area." While commercial use of recorded music generally requires a license, preventing live performance at political events presents significant challenges.
He noted that although content uploaded online with copyrighted music could be removed, stopping music played live at an event is, in his words, "beyond our control." Faulkner also stated his belief that artists should have the right to refuse usage for political causes they do not support.
Public Reaction and Band's Resolve
In the wake of the band's condemnation, supporters of One Nation reportedly encouraged "trolling" the band's social media post with negative comments. Faulkner indicated this did not concern him.
His primary worry was the potential for the public to misunderstand the band's political stance.
"They're waving our song around, brandishing it like it's a part of their worldview and the song's got nothing to do with them."
He reiterated that "What's My Scene?" is a deeply personal song and was never intended for political use.