2002: The Year Democrats Broke

Remember the documentary, "1991: The Year Punk Broke"?  I think there is an apt comparison to be made between the Democratic Party in 2002, and rock audiences in 1991.

For too long, hairbands like Poison, Motley Crue, Cinderella, etc., dominated rock and roll, selling millions of albums and selling out large venues.  Then, it suddenly dried up for them.  They lost their audience.  People were feeling cheated, and wanted something genuine.  

Instead of sluts rolling around on car hoods, fans wanted to see music address issues of import.  Instead of "HELLLOOOOOOO [city where band is playing]!" with pyrotechnic explosions, show-goers wanted music with a message that spoke to them. They wanted authenticity.

Back in the 50s and 60s, rock and roll was relevant and dynamic.  In the 70s and early 80s, it lost its urgency and drifted into a sea of hairspray, makeup, prurience, smoke and mirrors.  It ceased to be rock and roll.  But there were still true believers around who never gave up hope.  They rehabilitated the genre, and reaped the rewards.

Today, Kos played our Thurston Moore, while Harold Ford played the DLC's Brett Michaels.  It was almost sad to see the look on Brett's Harold's face, realizing that his venues will remain empty -- that there will be no more crowds clamoring for DLC guitar picks or drum sticks.  It's over.  They've trashed their last hotel room.

Don't take it personally, Harold.  We know it's only rock and roll, but we like it.  You are welcome to sing along with us, and you may even get a solo every now and then.  But the DLC's headlining days are over.