Living Color Slams Jann Wenner For Underestimating Black Musicians And Women

Living Color responded to controversial comments from Rolling Stone magazine founder Jann Wenner about black artists and women.

Considered the first black rock group to attract a large number of mainstream audiences since Sly and the Family Stone in the early 1970s, Living Color released the following statement via social media:

"We, Living Color members, would like to respond to Jann Wenner's recent apology for a controversial statement made to support his new book.

"The idea of a book titled 'The Masters', which openly eliminates the important contributions of black people, color skin, and women towards Rock & Pop Culture, shows far greater and systemic problems.

The statement of his interview in the New York Times stating that African-American artists and women are not enough'meaning' to express themselves about their work is absurd.

"For someone who has recorded a music landscape for more than 50 years, this is an insult to us sitting at the feet of these neglected genius people.

"Hearing that he believesmoto Wonder isn't good enough to express his thoughts on any topic is an insult. Hearing that Janis Joplin, Joni Mitchell, Tina Turner, or one of the many female artists she doesn't choose from anymore, they don't deserve to be 'Master' status, sexist nuances, and behave exclusively.

"Mr. Werner's apology only strengthens the idea. That his book is a reflection of his world's view shows that the book is narrow and small".

To note, The Masters featured interviews with Bob Dylan, Jerry Garcia, Mick Jagger, John Lennon, Bruce Springsteen, Pete Townshend and Bono U2 all white and male.

All, except for one member of the Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame board of directors, reportedly chose to fire Wenner.