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Title: Rise Against’s Tim McIlrath Opens Up About ‘Ricochet’ and the Dangers of Being a Politically Active Artist
In an exclusive interview with Billboard, Rise Against frontman Tim McIlrath has spoken candidly about his band’s new album, “Ricochet,” as well as the importance of maintaining artistic integrity in the face of potential backlash.
Regarding the album, McIlrath emphasized that Ricochet is not just another record from a band that has been around for over two decades. Instead, it represents Rise Against’s commitment to continuing their journey as passionate, socially conscious artists. “We’re not trying to be the loudest voice in the room,” he explained, “but we will always try to speak out against injustice and stand with those who are fighting against oppression.”
As a band that has consistently used their platform for good, Rise Against is well aware of the risks associated with speaking truth to power. McIlrath stressed the importance of not caving in to external pressures or expectations, stating, “I don’t plan on caving to anybody’s idea of what my band should sound like or say or shouldn’t say. That’s something you have to be very protective of – your band, your art – and not let anybody tinker with it.”
The vocalist also touched on the growing fear among artists of taking a stance against the status quo, citing that many are hesitant to express their convictions due to concerns about losing fans or facing backlash. “There’s more people out there fighting for change than the loudest voices on the internet,” he said, emphasizing the importance of not prioritizing clicks and likes over artistic vision.
McIlrath also expressed his hope that Rise Against can be a beacon for those who feel silenced by the constant noise online. “What I always try to tell people is: there are people out there waiting for you to say something,” he emphasized, highlighting the need for artists to take control of their own narrative rather than chasing after fleeting popularity.
As Rise Against continues to navigate the ever-changing landscape of the music industry and societal expectations, McIlrath remains steadfast in his commitment to his art and the impact it can have on the world. With Ricochet’s release, fans can expect nothing but more unapologetic and unafraid socially conscious content from the iconic punk rock outfit.
Source: Billboard
Source: www.billboard.com
