Nick Cave Criticizes Roger Waters’ ‘Embarrassing’ Boycott of Israel

Nick Cave has openly addressed the backlash he’s faced over his decision not to boycott Israel, and has taken the opportunity to criticize Pink Floyd’s Roger Waters for what he calls a “deeply damaging” approach. The 66-year-old Australian musician, known for his work with the Bad Seeds, has just released a new album, Wild God, which delves into themes of doubt and faith.

In a recent interview, Cave reaffirmed his dedication to defending free thought and expression, especially in light of the ongoing debate over boycotting Israel due to its actions in Gaza. He clarified his stance during an episode of the Reason podcast, released on 28 August.

“I’m not a supporter of the Israeli government, but I find it hard to justify using my music to punish ordinary people for their government’s actions. It boils down to that for me,” Cave stated. He elaborated, saying, “These are different people.” He contrasted Brian Eno’s involvement with that of Roger Waters, asserting that Waters is more damaging to the boycott movement and calling his actions “embarrassing.” In contrast, Cave described Eno as a “thoughtful individual.”

Roger Waters, now 80, has backed the boycott movement since around 2011. Back in 2006, he faced pressure from Palestinians to cancel a concert in Tel Aviv but defended his decision, saying he was willing to play to anyone who believed in peace, regardless of their nationality.

In 2018, both Waters and Eno were among those advocating for a boycott of the Eurovision Song Contest held in Tel Aviv, reaffirming their support for the Boycott, Divestments, and Sanctions (BDS) movement.

Cave responded by publishing an open letter to Eno, stating that his decision to perform in Israel did not imply support for the country’s political stance. He also distanced himself from the atrocities described by BDS supporters, emphasizing that he was not ignorant of them.

Earlier this year, Waters claimed he was “fired” by his publishing company, BMG, following inflammatory remarks about Israel made last year.

In his interview, Cave explained his early interest in Israel, which began in his teenage years growing up in Jewish areas in Melbourne. His first girlfriend was Jewish, which made the connection personal for him. He shared his long-standing fascination with the Bible, which fueled his desire to visit Israel and see the historical places mentioned in the scriptures.

“I was thrilled to stand on the Sea of Galilee and visit the sites of Christ’s crucifixion,” Cave recalled. Despite the current conflicts in Israel, he maintains a profound love for the place and the history of the Jewish people.

Cave admitted to feeling somewhat worn out from a series of interviews, stating he had done “six radio interviews in a row” and might have sounded a bit “hysterical and rambling.” However, he felt compelled to address the boycott calls. According to him, the BDS movement’s impact has lessened over time.

When asked if there were any countries he would refuse to play, Cave responded, “I’d have to think about that. Nothing’s sort of jumping out at me. I know this is controversial, but I just don’t agree with cultural boycotts in general. Mainly because they don’t seem to work. In Israel’s case, it emboldens the worst aspects of the current government and furthers their agendas while punishing ordinary fans.”

Nick Cave and the Bad Seeds’ new album, Wild God, is available now.

Source: The Independent