Tom Morello: ‘If It Kills Like Fascism, Brothers and Sisters, It’s Fascism’

Tom Morello’s 2023 has been marked by a surge of creative output and political activism, underscoring his enduring role as a musician deeply engaged with social issues. Early in the year, Morello energized audiences with a protest concert in Minneapolis, setting the tone for a year that would include high-profile collaborations and bold initiatives. By March, he had joined Bruce Springsteen and the E Street Band on an anti-Trump tour, blending music with pointed political statements.

October signaled another significant milestone with the release of Everyone Gets Everything They Want, Morello’s most intense album since his early days with Rage Against the Machine. This record showcases a wide range of his artistic capabilities, including a surprising foray into rap on the track “Soldier in the Army of Love.” The album also features guest appearances from Serj Tankian, Northern Irish rap group Kneecap, and Morello’s 15-year-old son, Roman, whose guitar work adds a fresh dimension to the project.

Morello describes this album as a culmination of his diverse musical identity, blending the heavy riffs reminiscent of Rage with his folk-inflected singer-songwriter side. His son Roman’s contributions highlight a generational shift, bringing technical prowess and a distinctive voice to the guitar-driven sound. The younger Morello’s influence is evident across several tracks, reflecting both reverence for his father’s legacy and his own emerging style.

Parallel to the album release, Morello curated the Power to the People festival, a politically charged event designed to galvanize support ahead of the midterm elections. Positioned as a celebration of peace, justice, and music, the festival channels Morello’s activist spirit into a public gathering that champions voting rights and social change. Proceeds from the event support organizations working on electoral justice, underscoring Morello’s belief in the importance of civic engagement beyond the ballot box.

Morello’s political commentary extends beyond his music and events. He has expressed concerns about the current political climate, drawing parallels to authoritarianism and warning against the erosion of democratic freedoms. Referencing recent developments such as the creation of a state-controlled news network by former President Trump, Morello frames these actions as symptomatic of broader fascist tendencies. He challenges artists and audiences alike to recognize and resist these threats to open discourse and justice.

His engagement with contemporary controversies, including the discourse surrounding Ed Sheeran and Macklemore, reveals a nuanced perspective. Morello sees the focus on Sheeran’s emotional reactions as a distraction from more critical issues like war crimes and censorship. He critiques the concentration of power among wealthy elites who control the platforms for artistic expression, stressing the necessity of grassroots resistance to authoritarian control.

The personal dimension of Morello’s activism is deeply informed by his late mother, Mary Morello, who passed away recently at the age of 102. Known for her lifelong commitment to social justice, Mary Morello’s legacy inspires Tom’s ongoing dedication to causes of equity and resistance. Her passing has fortified his resolve to channel her spirit of grassroots activism into his music and public work.

Musically, Morello remains committed to authenticity and innovation. He recounts his early struggles with formal guitar lessons and industry setbacks, which shaped his distinctive approach to music-making. His vow to create only what he believes in has driven his career, from his early bands through the height of Rage Against the Machine’s success to his current solo endeavors.

Morello’s collaboration with his son Roman provides a symbolic and practical continuation of this artistic mission. Roman’s early immersion in diverse musical genres and his technical skill point to a dynamic future, while their joint work bridges generational and stylistic gaps within rock and protest music.

As Morello navigates the intersection of art and activism in these turbulent times, his work reflects a broader call for collective action and cultural resistance. His recent projects, from the impactful album to the festival and outspoken political stances, reinforce his position as a leading figure in the fusion of music and social change.