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JETHRO TULL Singer Apologizes For Anti-American Remark

November 19, 2003

Ian Anderson of the British band JETHRO TULL has apologized for remarks made in a newspaper interview that seemingly criticized displays of the American flag.

In a posting on JETHRO TULL's web site, Ian Anderson further explained what he meant when he told the Asbury Park Press, "I hate to see the American flag hanging out of every bloody station wagon, out of every SUV, every little Midwestern house in some residential area."

Anderson said his concern wasn't specifically displays of the U.S. flag, but "the flag-waving mind-set" across the world.

The 56-year-old singer said he regretted the tone of the statements and apologized for "any perceived slur on the Stars and Stripes." "I really didn't understand — even after 35 years of visiting the USA on a regular basis — that this symbol had such fierce resonance for so many people as is now apparent to me," Anderson said.

The remarks touched off a furor that prompted WCHR — a classic rock radio station in New Jersey — to remove JETHRO TULL from its playlist. In light of Anderson's apology, WCHR is now allowing listeners to vote on whether or not to restore JETHRO TULL.

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