Former Iced Earth vocalist Matt Barlow has explained his approach to keeping politics out of his music. He discussed his philosophy during an interview on the Scars and Guitars Podcast.
Barlow outlined his deliberate decision to avoid political messaging in his music. He emphasized his responsibility as an entertainer to unite rather than divide fans.
“I don’t preach politics,” Barlow said. “It’s a personal thing for me that I don’t do, because I’m not trying to alienate people that are friends or fans of music or just my friends in general. ‘Cause I have friends that are on all sides of the spectrum, where that’s concerned. And it’s just not my job.”
The singer elaborated on how this philosophy extends to his songwriting approach and his role as a performer.
“And I feel that responsibility a lot with music too, man,” he continued. “I think that that’s one of the reasons that I don’t — in my lyrics or anything like that, if there’s anything that’s political or socially something, I try to leave it as ambiguous as possible so you can fill in your own blanks. A lot of the stuff that I do is thought out. I can release my rage and my demons in the music and make it aggressive because I know that that’s what a lot of people need to release. That’s what I needed.”
Barlow specifically referenced other bands known for their political stances. He explained his different approach.
“But I’m not gonna be a Rage Against The Machine guy, or Five Finger [Death Punch] or whatever,” he said. “And I don’t really follow Five Finger Death Punch, but everybody’s, like, ‘Well, they’re conservative.’ But I’m just not gonna put myself out there like that. I just choose not to. That’s not the kind of music that I wanna do, and that’s not the kind of music that I will do.”
The vocalist concluded by emphasizing his commitment to inclusivity within the metal community.
“Because I feel that I have a responsibility as an entertainer because I am an entertainer, and I have the privilege of performing these songs and writing these songs and performing them for people of all types, of all walks of life,” Barlow stated. “I don’t discriminate against anybody that’s a metal fan.”
Barlow’s perspective on keeping music and politics separate stems from his unique life experiences. These experiences have shaped his worldview both as a musician and public servant.
Wikipedia reported that Barlow made a significant career change in 2003 when he left Iced Earth following personal reflections after the September 11 attacks. He chose to serve his community more directly by becoming a police officer in Georgetown, Delaware. This decision reflected his desire to contribute to the “real world” beyond music. It demonstrated the same sense of responsibility he now applies to his artistic work.
The singer’s dual career path has given him a distinctive perspective on unity and service that influences his musical approach. Wikipedia noted that during his time away from Iced Earth, Barlow balanced his law enforcement duties with occasional musical performances. This included work with the First State Force Band, which promotes positive values through music within the law enforcement community.
Barlow’s commitment to avoiding divisive political messaging in his music reflects his broader philosophy of bringing people together rather than driving them apart. Metal Storm documented that his approach to songwriting has consistently focused on creating music that allows listeners to find their own meaning and connection. This applies regardless of their personal beliefs or political affiliations.
This inclusive approach has defined much of Barlow’s career. It shaped both his original tenure with Iced Earth and his subsequent musical endeavors. He continues to prioritize the unifying power of metal music over potentially polarizing political statements.
