Triumph’s guitarist Rik Emmett shared his thoughts on the current political climate in America in a recent interview with WNST.
“The Republicans in your country are offensive people, and they’re being offensive to the rest of the world,” Emmett stated. “I love the fact that there are Americans that don’t agree with that, but we are gonna be defensive.”
“And yes, your [Baltimore] Orioles [baseball team are gonna get a little bit of that [when they play the Toronto Blue Jays this week],” he continued. “They might hear some booing of your national anthem and stuff.”
“It’s not that I don’t love what America stands for. The greatest part of my career happened because of the support of Americans,” Emmett explained. “They’re still the largest amount of fans that I have.”
“But whatever happened to the America of Lady Liberty? Whatever happened to the America that had an open mind and an open heart and open arms?” he added. “Like, come on! That’s a thing that’s — it’s gone now, and it’s something to regret.”
Emmett’s comments emerge during his ongoing involvement in both the music industry and storytelling realm.
Baltimore Positive reports that Emmett launched his ’10 Telecaster Tales’ project recently. This innovative venture combines musical performance with personal storytelling about his experiences with the iconic Telecaster guitar.
The guitarist has voiced his concerns about Triumph’s treatment in the music industry. Ultimate Classic Rock reveals that Emmett believes influential industry figures, particularly Jann Wenner, have shown prejudice against the band. This bias has impacted their chances for recognition by institutions like the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame.
Emmett maintains strong ties with his American fanbase. He continues to address current political tensions between the United States and Canada.
His recent statements reflect his career’s broader context. He consistently serves as both a musician and a commentator on cultural issues affecting both nations.
