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Post by sandi on Aug 7, 2006 1:34:35 GMT -5
JUDAS PRIEST's ROB HALFORD: 'I'm Not One Of These Gay Guys With A Cause'
The metal community tosses around the word "gay" more freely than anyone outside of the town of "South Park". So what's it like to actually be a homosexual and be into metal? Decibel (DecibelMagazine.com) recently talked with openly gay metal musicians and fans to get the not-so-straight story for the magazine's September 2006 issue, available on the newsstands now.
Though singer Rob Halford rocked leather-daddy gear throughout most of JUDAS PRIEST's career, he didn't officially come out until he'd left PRIEST and was concentrating on his industrial project TWO. Still, he says, the timing had nothing to do with his distance from traditional metal. "It could just as easily have been [when I was in] FIGHT, which was very strong and hardcore; it could have easily happened on the back end of my time with PRIEST, before I went away and did my solo projects," he explains. "It was a very unplanned and unpremeditated moment — I just found the words coming out of my mouth. It was a wonderful moment for me, a very free moment. When the news broke, it flew around the world, and for some people it was quite a shock. For me, it was an important thing that I felt I needed to do.
"As far as time is concerned, I absolutely think it would have been more difficult for me to have come out in the '70s or '80s," continues Halford, with the hindsight of a man who's been a part of heavy metal for almost as long as the genre has existed. "I was aware of the fallout and damage that could have occurred because of the reaction from some fans and labels and media, but most importantly to my bandmates. One of the biggest obstacles that gay men face is that we put everyone else first and ourselves second. We're always thinking, 'How is this going to damage my family? How is this going to damage my work mates? How is this going to damage everything else around me?' If I had been a stronger person back then… I'm much stronger now, but back then I would have said, 'Fuck everyone else. This is me. This is who I am. Accept me or reject me, I don't give a shit.' Again, all of that thinking has been brought on by all the bigotry and intolerance and hate for us that still exists."
Halford's PRIEST bandmates knew of his orientation "right from the beginning. It was a non-issue," he says. I was fortunate because it could've been different. I think everyone knew that I was not going to go out there and start every performance with, 'Hi, I'm Rob Halford the metal god, and I'm a gay man,' because that was never the feeling for me at that point. There was never any need for it. I never suffered any band intolerance or friction or nasty comments or innuendos or that type of thing. I've certainly experienced it from some of the early tours with other bands and road crew. I heard it behind my back and saw it. It didn't affect me. I was like, 'Fuck you then.'
"There are still stereotypes that all gay men are effeminate and weak and queeny," Halford notes. "Of course, nothing could be further from the truth, which is why I think it's unfortunate that that type of portrayal is still given to the straight general public. In my world, you couldn't have anything stronger or more masculine and intense. Without inflating myself, I still consider myself to be breaking ground to a level of people within the metal world. I still think we have a long way to go. It's part of the puritanical streak that exists in America in 2006. Over here in the U.K. and other parts of Europe, gays have assimilated into society because that really should be the main goal — not labeling people or orientations of people. We're just people; we're all part of the human race. That would be a wonderful achievement. I still think, in America, there is a tremendous way to go. One of the ways of chipping away at bigotry and chipping away at all that kind of intolerance is to have some profile, generally through celebrities.
"I'm not one of these gay guys with a cause," Halford concludes. "I could and sometimes think I should get on my soapbox and start screaming and yelling, but that's just not part of my personality. I don't do things like that. Quite frankly, I'm not very efficient at it. I think there are more talented people than me in the gay community who have a stronger voice and a better way of explaining themselves. But we're still surrounded by a lot of problems."
Decibel's entire five-page article, titled "A Rainbow in the Dark", focusing on gay musicians and fans in the metal community, can be found in the magazine's September 2006 issue.
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Post by Speedy on Aug 7, 2006 10:57:19 GMT -5
The REASON Rob is accepted is that he isn't on the soapbox. Gays could realize more acceptance if they just assimilated like Rob says. How accepted would I be if I was walking down the street screaming " I am HETEROSEXUAL and I want my rights". I would be just as hated as the gay marchers. Truthfully I believe that 99% of America could give a shit about gays. What Americans hate is groups that stir shit up and break the peace.
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Post by duojett71 on Aug 7, 2006 20:35:09 GMT -5
No you would probablbly get a few laughs or people would think you are an idiot....but not hated like homosexuals. Homosexuals are treated like criminals by alot of people in this country. We have become more tolerant is the last 15 or so years, but there is a high percentage of the population that view it as wrong. Don't think for a minute that gays can just assimilate by shutting up and not saying anything. Do you think African Americans could have just assimilated back in the 50's and 60's if they just shut up and took it and hoped everything would blow over? There really is no difference because it is intolerance and Rob is right in saying that America still has a long way to go. That's my take on it anyway.....
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Post by Speedy on Aug 8, 2006 21:42:29 GMT -5
No you would probablbly get a few laughs or people would think you are an idiot....but not hated like homosexuals. Homosexuals are treated like criminals by alot of people in this country. We have become more tolerant is the last 15 or so years, but there is a high percentage of the population that view it as wrong. Don't think for a minute that gays can just assimilate by shutting up and not saying anything. Do you think African Americans could have just assimilated back in the 50's and 60's if they just shut up and took it and hoped everything would blow over? There really is no difference because it is intolerance and Rob is right in saying that America still has a long way to go. That's my take on it anyway..... Funny. I know at least 10 gay couples and plenty of singles and the gays in my community are not ostracized.....and this is Middle America at its finest. Why are they NOT hated? They don't march in our local parades in dresses or speedos waving banners. They take part in the community in a normal manner. They attend parties, sporting events, go to bars and act like everyone else. They are just members of the family. What gays ARE hated? Dumbasses who equate their struggle with that of African Americans. Those that act like freaks or constantly use their sexual preference as a way to get attention or cause trouble. I will tell you that a guy that grabs a strange chicks ass here will get his ass kicked just as quickly as a gay who grabs a strange guys ass. Gays are no more "discriminated" against than Goths, Christians, Metal Heads, Rednecks or Liberals. They are all full of crap. The only gays getting hassles these days are the ones acting like DICKS......and that is because they are DICKS, not because they are gay. |
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Post by duojett71 on Aug 10, 2006 23:46:10 GMT -5
Well for one I am not gay. And second intolerence is intolerence. You can calll me a dumbass all you want.....doesn't change the fact that there have been alot of hate crimes against gay people who are not out "wearing speedos and dresses". You know that right? Alot of issues that the gay community are facing are equal rights and if you really think they are treated equal you have your head in the sand. Pretending to fit in and assimilate is not going to change that. In fact I find that ideology beyond ridiculous. I am sure all of those gay couples you know, even though they are not out waving banners still hope for change.
Ok I am going to call bullshit on that one. I think if you really believe that you have no idea what is going on. No offense man but come on.....
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Post by Speedy on Aug 11, 2006 8:06:49 GMT -5
[ Ok I am going to call bullSh*t on that one. I think if you really believe that you have no idea what is going on. No offense man but come on..... I look at it this way. The only area gays are discriminated against above those groups is in marriage and adoption. The Feds have argued that gays cannot marry.(Personally I don't give a crap. let them suffer like the rest of us....just kidding). Adoptions can also be harder for gays. Even though most agencies allow it, some religious adoption groups will not even consider it. personally I think it is not the greatest idea but these kids need homes and loving parents. Gays might get their asses kicked in a Redneck bar. So will Goths and Metalheads. Rednecks might get their asses kicked in gay bars, goth clubs or Metal clubs. Gays might not get a job. Christians, rednecks, Goths, metalheads all might not get a job because of appearance or beliefs.....just like gays. Hell just having an earring or long hair can keep you from getting a job.....I know. Most of the so called "discrimination" that is directed at gays is self-induced. Those that "act gay" get it way more than those that do not. When I used to be discriminated because of might R&R appearance, I learned to cut my hair and remove the earring. Suddenly I got every job and promotion I was up for. If I go to a redneck bar I don't act in a manner that might get my ass kicked......and I certainly don't wear my studded wristbands. You have to learn that there IS discrimination for EVERYBODY. I am overweight and I get it just for that. Are you white? Try walking into a "black" club sometime. One time I accidentally walked into a "black" McDonald's with my wife and kids. We couldn't get served and were pretty much thrown out(Don't believe in a "black" McDonald's? Go to Richmond VA sometime). I am not saying it is right, but people don't like to upset the status quo. Gays that move into the community and conform to the community are accepted. Those that come to the community and try and change it into San Fransisco are doomed. Just like those in SF that want to change the city the opposite way. You need to be a part of the community. Have gays gotten their asses kicked just for being gay? For sure. I have gotten in fights just because of my last name.(I have never gotten my ass kicked....I have always been the biggest kid around....old man now). I say that if gays made a political change they would get much farther. "Celebrating" gayness is not the way to the hearts of middle America. Just like those who push religious and race agendas. They are in fact doing this AND it is working. The way to change people's minds is to become one of them. When blacks, Hispanics, gays move into an area it doesn't take long for them to assimilate.....as long as they participate. Like anybody if they hang on the outside they will be looked upon with suspicion. PS. Before anyone has a cow Jett and I are just debating. |
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Post by kim on Aug 11, 2006 15:01:03 GMT -5
No worries Speedy or Duojett. The great aspect of this board is that folks like yourself, Duojett, as well as the rest of us are able to converse about topics such as this. At least I think we are? Never seems to be any hammering on a personal level yet makes for some great conversation without dragging anyone down into the dirt. I could most likely get into a skirmish myself by announcing that I'm an off shade of white (cuz I was out in the sun) and am breathing someone else's oxygen...  ... ...OR...that I'm a big, fat, hairy, tattooed, testical pierced, Goth dressing, Catholic, toothless, bisexual, transgendered, redneck, first nation blooded, bleedin' heart communist. Actually, I am all of the above, but never wanted to mention it before...I'm kinda workin' on things though and I have a few issues at work so please...bear with me...  I find the dialogue here very interesting regardless of what side anyone feels they need to take. It's all about the discussion...WHY???... Simply because I wanna meet the real fuckin' judge that deems it right or wrong for the planet and all of of mankind for generations past, present and future and whether or not I have a right to be here provided I don't break the laws set out by those that don't fall into the same category I'm in. Seriously Speedy and Duojett...great discussion...keep er going! Thanks Kim |
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Post by Trexx on Aug 11, 2006 19:13:19 GMT -5
Thoughtful debate indeed.
As I see it, every minority group in the United States gets it’s chance at bat for equal treatment under the law. A fundamental overview reveals that the Emancipation Proclamation during the Civil War was the first base hit for Blacks in the new game here in our democratic, representative republic. The Suffragette Vote movement was an inning for women. The Blacks reprised their game for the 1960’s Civil Rights movement. Now the Homosexuals are on the playing field. To me it makes perfect sense for any group to step up anytime there’s a perception of unequal treatment. Frankly, personally, I find it odd that a minority group is identified by who they screw, but here in the U.S.A., we constantly check ourselves to see if we are getting equal treatment according to our laws. Critiquing the status and listening to the complaints is the process in which we Americans manifest our ideals of liberty and freedom. It’s a good thing, something to be proud of, no matter what side of any given debate you may be. We seem to be the only country that can do this and still be productive and strong.
I’ll add that Rob is correct about the U.S. being more prudish than Europe. The tenacity of the religious wackos here is remarkable. There seems to be a constant pressure to revive a new Victorian age.
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Post by Equinox on Aug 11, 2006 22:10:14 GMT -5
Well for one I am not gay. And second intolerence is intolerence. You can calll me a dumbass all you want.....doesn't change the fact that there have been alot of hate crimes against gay people who are not out "wearing speedos and dresses". You know that right? Alot of issues that the gay community are facing are equal rights and if you really think they are treated equal you have your head in the sand. Pretending to fit in and assimilate is not going to change that. In fact I find that ideology beyond ridiculous. I am sure all of those gay couples you know, even though they are not out waving banners still hope for change. Ok I am going to call bullSh*t on that one. I think if you really believe that you have no idea what is going on. No offense man but come on..... Well, can only speak for my own community, but gay bashing went the way of the dinosaurs in the 80's. My wife and I have more than a couple of friends who are gay. Her best friend in highschool (his parents thought they were a couple. lol), and I have helped coach and partied with our hometown women's softball team (say no more). The marriage ban is just silly IMO, and can see why they are fighting for this. Like speedy I was torn on the adoption thing, but after going to a state facility (a relative was adopting) and seeing the many children who need a family, I believe that any situation that gives a kid love and nurturing is better than not getting any. But job discrimination is no longer an issue around here. In fact, recent national studies show that the average income in the gay community is higher than that of non-gays. |
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Post by Equinox on Aug 11, 2006 22:18:43 GMT -5
I’ll add that Rob is correct about the U.S. being more prudish than Europe. The tenacity of the religious wackos here is remarkable. There seems to be a constant pressure to revive a new Victorian age. Trexx, I was right with you until this comment. I just watched an "Outside the Lines" report on racism in european soccer. I was floored by what they showed! In every country (especially Spain, France, and Germany) black players are taunted mercilessly. Large groups with signs saying stuff like go back to the jungle... Anti-semitism is also rampant in the stands. In both Germany and Spain large sections of fans wearing swastika's on their arms and worse. Many of the best black european players are talking about leaving the leagues. If this is the culture at the games, I find it hard to believe that it's somehow different off the field. |
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Post by duojett71 on Aug 11, 2006 23:16:40 GMT -5
Well like I said in my original post I don't think it is as bad now as it was in the past....but the whole thought process of 'shut up and don't act gay and you will be treated like everyone else' is pretty dumb. I don't think the gay coummunity as a whole(this is just my opinion) would appreciate the idea that they have to "assimilate"(I don't think they would appreciate that word either) just to be treated fair. You have to understand that alot of gay people do identify themselves as being different. You can't expect someone to act in a way that is not natural to them. Some gays are straight acting, some are not. Who are we to tell them to act in a certain way. As long as they are not breaking any laws they should be able to act how they want. That is part of the American way if I remember correctly.
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Post by Speedy on Aug 12, 2006 8:59:57 GMT -5
Well like I said in my original post I don't think it is as bad now as it was in the past....but the whole thought process of 'shut up and don't act gay and you will be treated like everyone else' is pretty dumb. I don't think the gay coummunity as a whole(this is just my opinion) would appreciate the idea that they have to "assimilate"(I don't think they would appreciate that word either) just to be treated fair. You have to understand that alot of gay people do identify themselves as being different. You can't expect someone to act in a way that is not natural to them. Some gays are straight acting, some are not. Who are we to tell them to act in a certain way. As long as they are not breaking any laws they should be able to act how they want. That is part of the American way if I remember correctly. We all should be able to act in any way we wish. However, like I have told my kids there are consequences for ANY of your actions. Want to get your nose, eyebrow, lip or tongue pierced.....fine, but be prepared to take flack for it. want to have your whole body tattooed......fine, but be prepared for backlash. Want to wear make-up and a mohawk....cool, but be prepared to accept criticism. Acting outside the norm is fine. I lived much of my life as an outsider. until my late 20's I said F*** 'em all. I do what I WANT TO DO. As I got passed over for job after job, and promotion after promotion I got a little smarter. I popped out my earrings and cut my hair.....changed my personality a little.......just for my public face......not my heart. I did much better in life. I am self employed in the hunting and fishing industry. There is NOT much room for a ROCKER in that(Uncle Ted excepted). Monday through Friday I wear camo, talk outdoors and play the role. Friday night through Sunday I am the ROCKER. Gays can act however they please.....but they HAVE to know there is a price! Is it RIGHT? Nope, but everyone pays a price for their actions. You know it, I know it and gays should know it. Same for minorities. Who will be more accepted in small town America? Morgan Freeman and Denzel Washington types OR Snoop Dog and Tupac. You know the answer. Who is going to get their ass kicked.......Rob Halford or Liberace, Rock Hudson or Jim J Bullock. Is it wrong? probably. Do we ALL have to live with it? YES! |
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Post by duojett71 on Aug 12, 2006 11:17:57 GMT -5
What you are talking about is making conscious choices, which is a little different. Having earrings and tattoos is a choice. It is not a natural part of ones being depending on how you look at it. Most homosexuals I have met have told me "....I did not choose to be this way, it is just who I am". I think if a gay man goes around wearing a dress...that is a conscious decision and yes there are consequences, but if a gay man is naturally effeminate and gay acting I think in most cases that is just part of who he is. Because of that I don't feel he should have to change and act in a way he does not feel comfortable in everyday life. You have to remember that it is 2006....not 1986....or even 1966. We should be way beyond all that shit now.
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Post by caljam on Aug 14, 2006 15:09:02 GMT -5
Halford may not be a gay guy with a cause, but he is a rocker who is only interviewed because he is gay.
I can't remember the last time I read a Halford interview that didn't talk about homosexuality. It's only going to be an issue if people keep making it one.
He's gay. Big deal. The press need to get over it. It's yesterday's news.
Let's talk about Stained Class instead. What a bloody brilliant album that one was!
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Post by Jesse on Aug 14, 2006 18:17:45 GMT -5
Halford may not be a gay guy with a cause, but he is a rocker who is only interviewed because he is gay. I can't remember the last time I read a Halford interview that didn't talk about homosexuality. It's only going to be an issue if people keep making it one. He's gay. Big deal. The press need to get over it. It's yesterday's news. Let's talk about Stained Class instead. What a bloody brilliant album that one was! I'm with you on this one!  |
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Post by Speedy on Aug 14, 2006 23:00:24 GMT -5
Halford may not be a gay guy with a cause, but he is a rocker who is only interviewed because he is gay. I can't remember the last time I read a Halford interview that didn't talk about homosexuality. It's only going to be an issue if people keep making it one. He's gay. Big deal. The press need to get over it. It's yesterday's news. Let's talk about Stained Class instead. What a bloody brilliant album that one was! Ha Ha! Just goes to show you what press hogs celebs are. Like they say "no bad press". As far as Stained Class......was that album ahead of its time or what? |
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Post by duojett71 on Aug 15, 2006 3:28:57 GMT -5
'Stained Class' is for me what Priest is all about...probably there best...good call.
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Post by Trexx on Aug 15, 2006 19:30:37 GMT -5
Red Hot White Heat <----- RULES!
Exciter <---- Too Much for Mortals! Yeah, man!
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Post by Trexx on Aug 15, 2006 19:33:02 GMT -5
I’ll add that Rob is correct about the U.S. being more prudish than Europe. The tenacity of the religious wackos here is remarkable. There seems to be a constant pressure to revive a new Victorian age. Trexx, I was right with you until this comment. I just watched an "Outside the Lines" report on racism in european soccer. I was floored by what they showed! In every country (especially Spain, France, and Germany) black players are taunted mercilessly. Large groups with signs saying stuff like go back to the jungle... Anti-semitism is also rampant in the stands. In both Germany and Spain large sections of fans wearing swastika's on their arms and worse. Many of the best black european players are talking about leaving the leagues. If this is the culture at the games, I find it hard to believe that it's somehow different off the field. That's messed up! Still, the U.S. has mighty lobbying effort of the hard core, religious right. Lotsa cash flowing from there... |
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Post by Speedy on Aug 15, 2006 20:28:32 GMT -5
That's messed up! Still, the U.S. has mighty lobbying effort of the hard core, religious right. Lotsa cash flowing from there... not to delve back into the debate....the Religious Right has no more power than the Left, NAACP, Gay Rights Organizations, Big Oil, Farmer's, etc etc etc. The current system of political donations/lobbyists has to stop. it is killing the country. However, people do not want to lose THEIR lobby rights....just those of the others. |
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