Interview: Dropkick Murphys' Ken Casey on Protesting ICE, Decrying Trump, and Representing Punk Rock

Ken Casey of Dropkick Murphys, one of the most outspoken political critics in punk rock, has been speaking up louder than ever about the encroach of fascism in America. In this interview with Heavy Consequence's Spencer Kaufman, Casey talks about the two things he knows best -- punk rock and political justice. The interview starts with "Citizen I.C.E.," the latest single from Dropkick Murphys that directly addresses ICE, and suggests that the recent killings in Minneapolis should be a wake-up call to anyone still on the fence. Casey then shares why we haven't seen more bands speaking out before teasing his collaboration with Michael Fanone and Rise Against that aims to do just that. Inspired my Fanone's recent heated appearance on Capitol Hill (while wearing a Dropkick Murphys shirt no less), Casey discusses the importance of showing up and speaking out in whatever way you're able and advocates for a general strike. He reminds us that Dropkick Murphys has remained politically consistent and outspoken since their formation, and that the rebellious spirit of punk rock has always informed his beliefs. Elsewhere in the interview, Casey reflects on his visit to Ukraine and the inspiration he draws from his Ukrainian allies. He also talks about the decommissioned MBTA van that Dropkick Murphys used to tour around the country, and how it emphasized their connection to Boston every time they pulled up to a venue. Lastly, Casey sings the praises of Boston hardcore band Haywire, whom he describes as having a father/son relationship with Dropkick Murphys. 00:00 - Intro 00:10 - “Citizen I.C.E.” 02:10 - Minneapolis killings 03:54 - Dropkick Murphys’ activism 04:47 - Why more bands aren’t speaking out 06:45 - Down for the Cause 08:33 - Michael Fanone and showing up 09:41 - Dropkick Murphys’ political consistency 10:49 - the power of protest and a general strike 12:36 - Visiting Ukraine 15:31 - The teachings of punk rock 18:12 - Representing Boston and Dropkick Murphys’ first tour van 20:04 - Haywire 20:57 - Parting message to Americans 21:38 - Outro Subscribe here for more! https://bit.ly/2RZJXTc​​​​​​​ Get more of Consequence http://consequence.net/ Facebook: http://cos.lv/QJFI30rnuXQ​​​​​​​​​ Twitter: http://cos.lv/zAxA30rnuXL​​​​​​​​​ TikTok: http://cos.lv/KZdI30rnuXJ​​​​​​​​​ Instagram: http://cos.lv/QJFI30rnuXQ Twitter: https://bit.ly/2RS5g8Z