Tom Morello Urges "Metalheads" to Take Action for the Planet

Rage Against The Machine guitarist Tom Morello has issued a passionate call to “metalheads” to step up and save the planet. Speaking at a press conference in France over the weekend, Morello emphasized the power of individuals as “agents of history,” according to Blabbermouth.

“There’s really one message that runs through all of my music, and that is: the world is not going to change itself. That is up to you. And by ‘you,’ I literally mean you,” Morello stated.

He continued, “It may seem like an insurmountable problem, but you are not mere witnesses to history; you are agents of history. History is not something that happened; it’s something you make.”

Morello encouraged everyone to recognize their potential to influence the world. “Once you realize that you have your hands on the wheel of history and this planet, and if you want to make it more peaceful, just, equitable, anti-racist, and environmentally sound, there’s no one to blame if it doesn’t happen but yourself for not standing up.”

He also warned about the urgency of the current global situation. “In part, literally the fate of the planet is at stake over the course of the next few decades,” he said. “So, it’s time for metalheads to get their shit together.”

Morello acknowledged the challenges but insisted on the importance of action. “It’s not easy, but wherever you are and whatever your job is, whether it’s standing up to illegitimate authority in your home, place of work, school, country, or whatever – history is not something that happens. It’s something that we make. So, I would encourage you to not despair, [but] to act.”

In recent months, Morello has been vocal about various issues, including the Israel-Hamas conflict, criticizing “horrific war crimes in Gaza.” He also campaigned against Barclays Bank sponsoring festivals like Download Festival, which led to the bank cutting ties.

Morello expressed his satisfaction with the outcome, stating, “A bank funding war crimes has no place at music festivals. The fact that Download has listened to its musicians and cut ties with Barclays Bank is a testament to the power of artists taking collective action for human rights. I’ve been pushing hard for this behind the scenes for some time and I salute all the artists who have taken a stand to help make this historic withdrawal happen.”

Additionally, over the weekend, Jane’s Addiction brought Morello on stage to perform “Mountain Song” and “Chip Away” in Germany, further showcasing his continued influence and collaboration within the music community.