Oklahoma's official song causes controversy

[backtoblue]

Source: BBC news

A track by US band The Flaming Lips is to become the official rock song of the state of Oklahoma despite opposition from politicians.

Do You Realize? won an online vote to find a state rock song but was rejected by the house of representatives.

Some members complained about bassist Michael Ivins wearing a T-shirt with the communist hammer and sickle on.

But Governor Brad Henry has announced he will overrule the decision and will officially endorse the song.

Republican representative Corey Holland had said he was offended by Ivins's T-shirt, worn on a visit to state offices last month.


"The great thing about this country is he has the right to make whatever statement he wants to make," Mr Holland added.

"I have the right to be offended by that."

Fellow Republican representative Mike Reynolds had also denounced singer Wayne Coyne for swearing at an event.

Now Governor Henry has said he will sign an executive order to adopt the song for the state.

Coyne told Billboard magazine that the Oklahoma City band had never thought they were "battling against what we feel is like a backwards mentality here".

"It's really just a couple of these small-minded guys who are the most popular guys in their church and their little small towns," he added.

"For the governor to stand up and veto it and be on our side - it's such a great story in the end."

[fishwax]

1. I'm happy for the Lips

A small thing in the grand scheme of things, I suppose, but I'm glad Brad Henry stood by the band and the online vote :)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fk76rsV71S0&feature=related

[Manifestor_of_Light]

2. It was obviously stolen from John Lennon. n/t

[spanone]

3. those darned republicans can't handle a tee shirt or a curse word....what prudes

[backtoblue]

4. so what ISN'T offensive now days???

some people are such smucks...