As a black guy who loves rock music I'd like to comment. The difference between TVOTR and most black rock bands is that TVOTR just rock and don't get preachy or try to convince you that "WE HAVE A RIGHT TO ROCK!" They just strap on their guitars and prove they're one of the best rock bands around!
I can't comment on that, as I am not black, but I will say that they also don't downplay their blackness, it's just shown in more subtle and poetic ways than a lot of other black rock bands. This song's lyrics are definitely an example of that even if the first line is a direct statement pertaining to race. And even if that first line is hard to take any other way but presented, it's still very clever. This is a very clever song and I love it. Probably my favorite TVOTR song.
Why are people down-thumbing this comment? It's very true, and not negative towards blacks... They have a different approach and way of doing music, which is what main stream music needs! These guys are just awesome. Obviously, I'm not racist at all, and neither is this person. And it's true that blacks make some of the best music. I don't even need to start listing names. TV on the Radio is one of my favorite bands now. Extremely talented, and unique. Can't wait to see them on Halloween. ; )
ogrish that was exactly magic's point i'm pretty sure.. see where he says they're good because their good not because their predominantly black.. racial JUDGEMENT is ignorant but making an observation about the influence of someones race and culture is fine and persecution of anyone talking about it just perpetuates race problems..
