NOTE: This article was inspired in large part by a fellow JoeUser's attempt to get U2 tickets. Because the opinion expressed in this article was WHOLLY inappropriate to that thread, it wasn't posted there. But I did feel an acknowledgement was in order.
In a recent discussion about obtaining U2 tickets, I could not help but think about the band, who is inextricably linked to efforts to eradicate world poverty through the highly prominent efforts of its front man, Bono. While I disagree with Bono's methods (yes, I have an alternative solution and have mentioned it many times), I highly respect the fact that he brought the issue to the table. That started me thinking: how much consideration do I put into a group or person's political point of view before attending their concerts or otherwise patronizing the fruits of their labor? The answer, I found, surprisingly, was: not much.
Two of my favorite actors are Susan Sarandon and Tim Robbins. We really couldn't be much further apart politically. But the fact is, if they are in a movie (chick flicks nothwithstanding for Sarandon, although I'm a fair bit more flexible with a movie with her in it than most others), I will usually put it high on my "to see" list because they pick their projects well, and usually choose compelling roles that leave you appreciating the time you spent. And, although I am not a huge fan of one of his "signature" hits (Lynyrd Skynyrd already expressed my POV on this, no need to rehash it now), I would go to a Neil Young concert any time you asked. Bob Dylan? Pete Seeger? Just put the tickets in my hand, and show me the way.
One of the best concerts I ever attended was at the WOMAD (world of music, art and cance) theatre outside Chicago, and featured Midnight Oil, among others. Midnight Oil's politics could not be described as anything short of far left, but man, did they put on a show. Even though I must point out I WAS "far left" at the time, I would not hesitate to go back, given the opportunity.
In short, when I go to see a movie, it's about the show. When I go to the concert, it's about the music. The bands, actors, and other entertainers, in my opinion, are free to express any point of view they choose (David Bowie's fascination with fascism comes to mind), as long as they put on a good show while I'm sitting out front.