Popular support for Anti-Trident campaign?

I'm a bit sceptical of pop/rock bands supporting campaigns due to the fact that it seems that they only show any sign of interest in politics when they can be sure of self promotion ( cynical, I know). Live 8 was a classic example, and musical politicos such as Damon Albarn boycotted the event due to the lack of black artists performances as well as stating that artists should in fact pay to take part as they would no doubt receive much free publicity from the concerts.

I would be much more supportive of bands taking part in charity/ campaign events if they wrote more politically motivated songs, and advocated the message of their charity of choice on a much more regular basis. News today, therefore that a host of popular bands have announced their opposition to the development of trident isn't a de facto sign of a resurgent CND. Bands such as Razorlight, Snow Patrol, Super Furry Animals, and...Damon Albarn have all condemned the possibility of renewing trident, and as a keen anti nuclear arms campaigner, I agree with their statement below which comes in light of the anti-trident demo in London this weekend:

'The £76bn cost to replace and maintain Trident would be better spent on health care, education, alleviating global poverty or tackling the problems of climate change.Let's choose peace and justice, not nuclear weapons and war."


I hope that the bands turn out to the demo on Saturday, and that they continue to support CND's important campaign. Perhaps a resurgent CND, with celebrity support can encourage more people to take part in a campaign which is quickly becoming one of the most pressing issues on the political agenda. If support from British bands does falter, let's hope that the anti-Trident campaign will grow regardless of the relatively fickle world of pop culture....