In September 2023, Rolling Stone magazine co-founder Jann Wenner was interviewed by The New York Times, where he spoke about his book "The Masters" and the decision to only focus on white male performers. He made shocking comments about women and people of color in his interview, which resulted in widespread and rightful criticism from the music industry and his subsequent removal from the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Foundation board. Later, Wenner apologized for his comments.
Living Colour wasn't about to let him off the hook easily, though. Taking to their social media accounts, the band posted a statement that condemned Wenner's comments and attitude, while also pointing out that his views are symptomatic of a bigger issue in society that needs to be addressed. They also expressed how his apology only further exposed his myopic view of music and the world as a whole.
"To hear that he believes Stevie Wonder isn't articulate enough to express his thoughts on any given subject is, quite frankly, insulting," Living Colour wrote. "To hear that Janis Joplin, Joni Mitchell, Tina Turner, or any of the many [women] artists that he chooses not to mention, are not worthy of the status of 'Master,' smacks of sexist gatekeeping, and exclusionary behavior."
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