Irish rock legend Bono has told South Africa what he thinks about struggle songs – they’re wildly irresponsible if they are used to stir up hate.
Last Sunday, the Sunday Times labelled the U2 frontman an ally of ANC Youth League president Julius Malema when he said there was nothing wrong with singing political songs like “Shoot the Boer” – but not at public gatherings.
In an interview with Talk Radio 702’s Redi Tlhabi on Wednesday, Bono said anyone who knows who he is would know that it was not what he stood for.
“I was making the point that in Ireland we’ve songs on both sides of the troubles that are offensive to the other community … but it is wildly irresponsible and worse to use these songs to stir up more hate. Hate is not welcome. “We are famous for songs of non-violence. That anyone should think we were pro this is barking, barking mad. What the world admires about South Africa is its radical centre, not the extremes on both sides who stir trouble. South Africa is a lesson in grace and that’s what the world loves about it.” – Cape Times