Former Pantera frontman Phil Anselmo has responded to accusations of racism, describing his infamous ‘white power’ salute in 2016 as an “off-colour joke”.
Back in March, it was revealed that a forthcoming tour from Phil Anselmo & The Illegals had seen its New Zealand performances cancelled, with Anselmo’s comments of “white supremacy” being cited as the reason.
The comments in question occurred back in 2016 when Anselmo served as one of the guests who performed at the Dimebash festival in California. While wrapping up a performance of Pantera’s ‘Walk’, audiences were left stunned when Anselmo gave a nazi salute, and yelled phrases such as “sieg heil” and “white power”.
While Anselmo later issued an apology, he has frequently been targeted with various accusations of white supremacy and support far-right ideologies.
Check out the infamous incident from Phil Anselmo:
Now, in a recent interview with Kerrang!, Phil Anselmo has addressed the issue once again, describing his comments as an “off-colour” joke.
“I feel like it’s ridiculous,” Anselmo began. “I made an off-colour joke and ‘Boom!’ – it’s like I’m literally Hitler! I’m not.”
“I take each individual one at a time, in the way that any logical individual will. I have love in my heart.”
“Over the years I’ve learned to take the first step with love and to put good faith first. I get along with everybody,” he continued. “If there’s any doubt about my political leanings, people should get it out of their heads.”
“I was raised amongst a dazzling [cast of characters] from the theatre, from the mental hospital, from all walks of life – all colours, creeds and kinds.”
“It’s absurd to me that anyone in this day and age would judge anyone by the colour of their skin, their heritage or their religion. I’m a harmless guy. I’m a reactionary, not a troublemaker.”
Check out Pantera’s ‘Cowboys From Hell’:
Although Phil Anselmo & The Illegals’ Australian dates went ahead as planned, venues like Christchurch’s Club Tavern issued a statement noting that they “do not and will not support white supremacy or racism.”
Tour promoter Ben Mulchin of Valhalla Touring also released a statement addressing the claims of white supremacism, explaining that they “would never book anyone with ‘white power’ or ‘white power politics’, or any other silly political agendas. No way.”
“We need to make that very very clear — as music is our livelihood. Phil Anselmo had an indiscretion a few years back while under the influence of substances that is widely documented; by making a very hurtful remark and idiotic gesture.”
“I honestly don’t think Phil is racist but regardless he has committed a pretty terrible act in 2016.”
Check out Pantera’s ‘Walk’:
