Boy George & Culture Club. ALLAN POLICARPIO
For Boy George, the androgynous frontman of the 1980s British group Culture Club, said he was at a loss for words to properly describe what he felt when he learned that a recent mass shooting at a gay nightclub in Orlando, Florida had resulted in the death of 49 innocent victims–a massacre considered one of the deadliest in the United States.
“My sentiments would be the same as any other sane person’s–I was very, very sad…I don’t know how the people are going to get through this, but I know they will,” he said yesterday at a press conference for his iconic band’s first-ever concert in the country set on June 18, at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.
“It was not just an attack on gay people, but an attack on everyone,” added the 55-year-old blue-eyed soul singer, who had reunited with his original band mates, Jon Moss (drums), Mikey Craig (bass) and Roy Hay (guitar) to make new music and go on tour.
The tragic incident happened on June 12–only two days prior to George’s birth anniversary; he couldn’t bring himself to celebrate. “It was difficult for me to enjoy the day because I couldn’t stop thinking about the victims, their families, those who were devastated,” he related.
It was, however, heartening to see, he said, that more attention is being given to the issues and plights of the LGBT community. “There were also wonderful tributes. There were gatherings in London, New York…everywhere. And I was really touched by it,” George said.
Meanwhile, the recording artist jested that Culture Club, which spawned the hits “Karma Chameleon,” “Time (Clock of the Heart)” and “The War Song,” will stage their own version of “Thrilla in Manila.” “It will be interesting to see how the people will react, and what their level of enthusiasm will be,” he said.
READ: Boy George & Culture Club promise Manila fans a night to remember
The one-night show–part of Culture Club’s ongoing world tour–is mounted by Royale Chimes and Events; call 911-5555. CDG
E-mail apolicarpio@inquirer.com.ph