That’s why - ahead of their third Israeli tour – the band took a stand against other musicians who cancel their concerts in Israel due to politics, saying artists should not take sides in political conflicts, with drummer Ian Paice calling these musicians "real wimps."
Haaretz reports Deep Purple members spoke at a press conference Wednesday, in advance of two concerts they are due to perform in Caesarea on Saturday and Sunday.
Vocalist Ian Gillan stressed to reporters that musicians should remain impartial in political disputes, and likened this to making the assumption that Deep Purple supported all of Tony Blair's policies because they gave a concert in London ten years ago.
Guitarist Steve Morse quipped that left-wing groups did not know what to say to them when they refused to cancel performances in Israel. In any case, Morse added, Deep Purple doesn't respect politicians in their native England, and questioned why their attitude would be any different in other countries.
Deep Purple Deep Purple – Lazy
Auditorio Telmex - Guadalajara, Mexico – February 27, 2011
See also:
Deep Purple: Glenn Hughes bio due next week
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Black Country Communion: New album due in June
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Deep Purple: North American tour to feature 30-piece orchestra
New solo album from Deep Purple bassist due in June
Deep Purple singer says ‘it’s about time’ to make a new record
